A review of the application of wide-bandgap semiconductor photocatalysts for CO2 reduction

Abstract

Artificial photosynthesis is a viable technique for mitigating the ever-increasing energy demands by converting carbon dioxide (CO₂) into energy-rich C₁ and C₂₊ products. A massive contribution to climate change and global warming is the widespread use of fossil fuels, responsible for more than 90% of total CO₂ emissions and more than 75% of global greenhouse gas emissions. The most efficient method to convert CO₂ into renewable and clean energy is utilizing plentiful sun energy to accelerate photo-induced chemical reactions. Practical CO₂ reduction (CO₂R), including choosing promising wide-bandgap (WBG) semiconductor photocatalysts with more negative conduction band potential, would be a holy grail for selective fuels and chemicals production. This review article deliberates on the importance of WBG semiconductor photocatalysts and a specific energy level in the conduction band for selective photocatalytic CO₂R, which may assist in guiding future photocatalyst design for CO₂R. In addition, the summary and prospects of WBG semiconductor photocatalysts and techniques for improving CO₂ conversion efficiency and selectivity are discussed.