Advancing Photoelectrochemical Energy Conversion through Atomic Design of Catalysts

Powered by inexhaustible solar energy, photoelectrochemical (PEC) hydrogen/ammonia production and reduction of carbon dioxide to high added‐value chemicals in eco‐friendly and mild conditions provide a highly attractive solution to carbon neutrality. Recently, substantial advances have been achieved in PEC systems by improving light absorption and charge separation/transfer in PEC devices. However, less attention is given to the atomic design of photoelectrocatalysts to facilitate the final catalytic reactions occurring at photoelectrode surface, which largely limits the overall photo‐to‐energy conversion of PEC system. Fundamental catalytic mechanisms and recent progress in atomic design of PEC materials are comprehensively reviewed by engineering of defect, dopant, facet, strain, and single atom to enhance the activity and selectivity. Finally, the emerging challenges and research directions in design of PEC systems for future photo‐to‐energy conversions are proposed.
Photoelectrochemical hydrogen/ammonia generation and carbon dioxide reduction offer more opportunities for carbon neutrality. In this review, recent progress in the atomic design of PEC materials for enhanced surficial catalysis is reviewed from the aspects of defect, dopant, facet, strain, and single atom engineering. Emerging challenges and research directions for the design of future photo‐to‐energy devices are also proposed.