Highly efficient photosynthesis of hydrogen peroxide in ambient conditions

Significance Advanced oxidation processes (AOPs) are widely applied to the treatment of refractory organic pollutants in the environment. However, the continuous addition of oxidant limits their application for in situ remediation of river courses. Hydrogen peroxide (H 2 O 2 ) is the most commonly used oxidant in AOPs. Photosynthesis of H 2 O 2 is a promising approach to provide oxidants for AOPs in an in situ and continuous way. However, limited by the rapid charge recombination, organic electron donors and O 2 atmosphere are usually required. Here, a Z-scheme heterojunction photocatalyst achieved the production of H 2 O 2 in pure water and open air. The regulation and potential mechanism of the Z-scheme and type II heterojunctions are revealed. This study demonstrates a feasible strategy for developing efficient Z-scheme photocatalysts.