Solar-driven H2O2 synthesis from H2O and O2 over molecular engineered organic framework photocatalysts

Abstract

H₂O₂ is an environmentally friendly oxidant and a promising energy-containing molecule widely applied in industrial production, environmental remediation, and as a potential carrier for energy storage. Solar-driven conversion of earth-abundant H₂O and O₂ is the most ideal method for producing H₂O₂. Due to poor separation of photogenerated charge carriers in semiconductors, sacrificial reagents such as ethanol are typically added to consume photogenerated holes, but this is not an energy storage process. Therefore, developing efficient photocatalysts for direct H₂O₂ production from H₂O and O₂ without sacrificial agents is crucial for sustainable energy conversion. Organic framework materials, due to their customizable structures, have gained traction in the photosynthesis of H₂O₂ from pure H₂O and O₂. A series of functionalized molecules have been introduced as building blocks into organic frameworks to enhance the H₂O₂ production performance, but their key roles in performance and reaction pathways have not been summarized in detail so far. This review aims to address this gap and elucidate the relationship between the structure and performance of organic framework photocatalysts, providing insights and guidance for the development of efficient photocatalysts.