Recent progress in oxynitride photocatalysts for visible-light-driven water splitting

A Mini Review on Borate Photocatalysts for Water Decomposition: Synthesis, Structure, and Further Challenges

The development of novel photocatalysts, both visible and UV-responsive, for water decomposition reactions is of great importance. Here we focused on the application of the borates as photocatalysts in water decomposition reactions, including water splitting reaction, hydrogen evolution half-reaction, and oxygen evolution half-reaction. In addition, the rates of photocatalytic hydrogen evolution and oxygen evolution by these borate photocatalysts in different water decomposition reactions were summarized. Further, the review summarized the synthetic chemistry and structural features of existing borate photocatalysts for water decomposition reactions. Synthetic chemistry mainly includes high-temperature solid-state method, sol-gel method, precipitation method, hydrothermal method, boric acid flux method, and high-pressure method. Next, we summarized the crystal structures of the borate photocatalysts, with a particular focus on the form of the B-O unit and metal-oxygen polyhedral in the borates, and used this to classify borate photocatalysts, which are rarely mentioned in the current photocatalysis literature. Finally, we analyzed the relationship between the structural features of the borate photocatalysts and photocatalytic performance to discuss the further challenges faced by the borate photocatalysts for water decomposition reactions.

Engineering the Electronic Structure towards Visible Lights Photocatalysis of CaTiO3 Perovskites by Cation (La/Ce)-Anion (N/S) Co-Doping: A First-Principles Study

Cation-anion co-doping has proven to be an effective method of improving the photocatalytic performances of CaTiO3 perovskites. In this regard, (La/Ce-N/S) co-doped CaTiO3 models were investigated for the first time using first-principles calculations based on a supercell of 2 × 2 × 2 with La/Ce concentrations of 0.125, 0.25, and 0.375. The energy band structure, density of states, charge differential density, electron-hole effective masses, optical properties, and the water redox potential were calculated for various models. According to our results, (La-S)-doped CaTiO3 with a doping ratio of 0.25 (LCOS1-0.25) has superior photocatalytic hydrolysis properties due to the synergistic performances of its narrow band gap, fast carrier mobility, and superb ability to absorb visible light. Apart from the reduction of the band gap, the introduction of intermediate energy levels by La and Ce within the band gap also facilitates the transition of excited electrons from valence to the conduction band. Our calculations and findings provide theoretical insights and solid predictions for discovering CaTiO3 perovskites with excellent photocatalysis performances.

Transition-metal (oxy)nitride photocatalysts for water splitting

Solar-driven water splitting based on particulate semiconductor materials is studied as a technology for green hydrogen production. Transition-metal (oxy)nitride photocatalysts are promising materials for overall water splitting (OWS) via a one- or two-step excitation process because their band structure is suitable for water splitting under visible light. Yet, these materials suffer from low solar-to-hydrogen energy conversion efficiency (STH), mainly because of their high defect density, low charge separation and migration efficiency, sluggish surface redox reactions, and/or side reactions. Their poor thermal stability in air and under the harsh nitridation conditions required to synthesize these materials makes further material improvements difficult. Here, we review key challenges in the two different OWS systems and highlight some strategies recently identified as promising for improving photocatalytic activity. Finally, we discuss opportunities and challenges facing the future development of transition-metal (oxy)nitride-based OWS systems.

Advanced Photocatalysts for CO2 Conversion by Severe Plastic Deformation (SPD)

Excessive CO₂ emission from fossil fuel usage has resulted in global warming and environmental crises. To solve this problem, the photocatalytic conversion of CO₂ to CO or useful components is a new strategy that has received significant attention. The main challenge in this regard is exploring photocatalysts with high efficiency for CO₂ photoreduction. Severe plastic deformation (SPD) through the high-pressure torsion (HPT) process has been effectively used in recent years to develop novel active catalysts for CO₂ conversion. These active photocatalysts have been designed based on four main strategies: (i) oxygen vacancy and strain engineering, (ii) stabilization of high-pressure phases, (iii) synthesis of defective high-entropy oxides, and (iv) synthesis of low-bandgap high-entropy oxynitrides. These strategies can enhance the photocatalytic efficiency compared with conventional and benchmark photocatalysts by improving CO₂ adsorption, increasing light absorbance, aligning the band structure, narrowing the bandgap, accelerating the charge carrier migration, suppressing the recombination rate of electrons and holes, and providing active sites for photocatalytic reactions. This article reviews recent progress in the application of SPD to develop functional ceramics for photocatalytic CO₂ conversion.

Tailoring 2D carbides and nitrides based photo-catalytic nanomaterials for energy production and storage: a review

2D carbides and nitrides-based nanomaterials because of their unusual physical and chemical properties and a vast range of energy-storage applications have attracted tremendous attention. However, 2D carbides and nitrides-based nanomaterials and their corresponding composites have many intrinsic constraints in terms of energy-storage applications. The nano-engineering of these 2D materials is widely investigated, to improve their performance for practical application. In this Review article, the current progress and research on 2D carbides and nitrides-based nanostructures are presented and debated, concentrating on their methods of preparation, and energy conservation applications for example Lithium-ion-battery, supercapacitors, and Sodium-ion-battery. In conclusion, the problems, and recommendations essential to be discussed for the progress of these 2D nanomaterials for energy-storage applications based on carbides and nitrides are displayed.

Recent Advances in Ternary Metal Oxides Modified by N Atom for Photocatalysis

Ternary metal oxides (TMOs) with flexible band structures are of significant potential in the field of photocatalysis. The efficient utilization of renewable and green solar energy is of great importance to developing photocatalysts. To date, a wide range of TMOs systems has been developed as photocatalysts for water and air purification, but their practical applications in visible light-assisted chemical reactions are hindered mainly by its poor visible light absorption capacity. Introduction of N atoms into TMOs can narrow the band-gap energy to a lower value, enhance the absorption of visible light and suppress the recombination rate of photogenerated electrons and holes, thus improving the photocatalytic performance. This review summarizes the recent research on N-modified TMOs, including the influence of N doping amounts, N doping sites, and N-induced phase transformation. The introduced N greatly tuned the optical properties, electronic structure, and photocatalytic activity of the TMOs. The optimal N concentration and the influence of N doping sites are investigated. The substitutional N and interstitial N contributed differently to the band gap and electron transport. The introduced N can tune the vacancies in TMOs due to the charge compensation, which is vital for inducing different activity and selectivity. The topochemical ammonolysis process can convert TMOs to oxynitride with visible light absorption. By altering the band structures, these oxynitride materials showed enhanced photocatalytic activity. This review provides an overview of recent advances in N-doped TMOs and oxynitrides derived from TMOs as photocatalysts for environmental applications, as well as some relevant pointers for future burgeoning research development.

Insight into the regulation between crystallinity and oxygen vacancies of BiVO4 affecting the photocatalytic oxygen evolution activity

The oxygen defects and crystallinity of BiVO4 were matched and regulated by heat treatment, which improved the crystallinity and the photocorrosion resistance, and ensured the existence of certain oxygen defects as reactive sites to improve the oxygen evolution activity.

First-principles calculations of the structural, energetic, electronic, optical, and photocatalytic properties of BaTaO2N low-index surfaces

We present here the influence of different surface terminations on the electronic, optical, and photocatalytic properties of trans and cis BaTaO2N using density functional theory calculations.

Microwave-assisted hydrothermal synthesis of MoS2-Ag3PO4 nanocomposites as visible light photocatalyst for the degradation of tetracycline hydrochloride

In the modern era, industrialization has facilitated the human life but produced several severe pollutants as well that are hazardous in nature. Thus the degradation of these hazardous material has drawn considerable attention. This study deals with the synthesis of MoS₂/Ag₃PO₄ heterojunction nanocomposite with 1-50% wt. using a microwave-assisted hydrothermal process as well as photocatalytic activity of tetracycline hydrochloride (TCH) degradation has been analysed. The compositional properties of nanocomposite catalysts have been studied through X-ray diffraction, Fourier transform infrared, X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy as well as structural and morphological studies were conducted through scanning electron microscopy, transmission electron microscopy, Brunauer-Emmet-Teller, photoluminescence, N₂ physical adsorption, UV-vis diffuse reflectance spectroscopy. This provides an excellent and efficient mechanism for the remediation of residual organic contaminants under visible light that could be used to decontaminate the atmosphere.

Sulfide-Based Photocatalysts Using Visible Light, with Special Focus on In2S3, SnS2 and ZnIn2S4

Sulfides are frequently used as photocatalysts, since they absorb visible light better than many oxides. They have the disadvantage of being more easily photocorroded. This occurs mostly in oxidizing conditions; therefore, they are commonly used instead in reduction processes, such as CO2 reduction to fuels or H2 production. Here a summary will be presented of a number of sulfides used in several photocatalytic processes; where appropriate, some recent reviews will be presented of their behaviour. Results obtained in recent years by our group using some octahedral sulfides will be shown, showing how to determine their wavelength-dependent photocatalytic activities, checking their mechanisms in some cases, and verifying how they can be modified to extend their wavelength range of activity. It will be shown here as well how using photocatalytic or photoelectrochemical setups, by combining some enzymes with these sulfides, allows achieving the photo-splitting of water into H2 and O2, thus constituting a scheme of artificial photosynthesis.

Bi4AO6Cl2 (A = Ba, Sr, Ca) with Double and Triple Fluorite Layers for Visible-Light Water Splitting

Layered oxyhalides containing double or triple fluorite layers are promising visible-light-responsive water-splitting photocatalysts with unique band structures. Herein, we report on the synthesis, structure, and photocatalytic property of Bi₄BaO₆Cl₂ (I4/mmm) with alternating double (Bi₂O₂) and triple (Bi₂BaO₄) fluorite layers, which was extracted from the crystallographic database on the basis of Madelung potential calculations. Rietveld refinements from powder X-ray and neutron diffraction data revealed the presence of cationic disorder between Bi₂O₂ and Bi₂BaO₄ layers, leading to electrostatic stabilization. DFT calculations suggested that photogenerated electrons and holes flow through the double and triple layers, respectively, which may suppress electron-hole recombination. We expanded this double-triple system to include Bi₄CaO₆Cl₂ and Bi₄SrO₆Cl₂ with orthorhombic distortions and different degrees of cationic disorder, which allow band gap tuning. All the double-triple compounds Bi₄AO₆Cl₂ showed stable water-splitting photocatalysis in the presence of a sacrificial reagent.

In situ constructed oxygen-vacancy-rich MoO3-x /porous g-C3N4 heterojunction for synergistically enhanced photocatalytic H2 evolution

A simple method was developed for enhanced synergistic photocatalytic hydrogen evolution by in situ constructing of oxygen-vacancy-rich MoO_3−x/porous g-C₃N₄ heterojunctions. Introduction of a MoO_3−x precursor (Mo(OH)₆) solution into g-C₃N₄ nanosheets helped to form a porous structure, and nano-sized oxygen-vacancy-rich MoO_3−xin situ grew and formed a heterojunction with g-C₃N₄, favorable for charge separation and photocatalytic hydrogen evolution (HER). Optimizing the content of the MoO_3−x precursor in the composite leads to a maximum photocatalytic H₂ evolution rate of 4694.3 μmol g⁻¹ h⁻¹, which is approximately 4 times higher of that of pure g-C₃N₄ (1220.1 μmol g⁻¹ h⁻¹). The presence of oxygen vacancies (OVs) could give rise to electron-rich metal sites. High porosity induced more active sites on the pores' edges. Both synergistically enhanced the photocatalytic HER performance. Our study not only presented a facile method to form nano-sized heterojunctions, but also to introduce more active sites by high porosity and efficient charge separation from OVs.

In situ growth method to construct a nano-sized oxygen-vacancy-rich MoO_3−x/porous g-C₃N₄ heterojunction. MoO_3−x derived OV traps and porous g-C₃N₄ nanosheet derived short migration distance and plentiful edge active sites.

High-Pressure Torsion for Synthesis of High-Entropy Alloys

High-pressure torsion (HPT) is widely used not only as a severe plastic deformation (SPD) method to produce ultrafine-grained metals but also as a mechanical alloying technique to synthesize different alloys. In recent years, there have been several attempts to synthesize functional high-entropy alloys using the HPT method. In this paper, the application of HPT to synthesize high-entropy materials including metallic alloys, hydrides, oxides and oxynitrides for enhanced mechanical and hydrogen storage properties, photocatalytic hydrogen production and high light absorbance is reviewed.

Nanostructure Engineering and Modulation of (Oxy)Nitrides for Application in Visible-Light-Driven Water Splitting

(Oxy)nitride-based nanophotocatalysts have been extensively investigated for solar-to-chemical conversion, and not only allow wide spectral utilization to achieve high theoretical energy conversion efficiency but also exhibit suitable conduction and valence band positions for robust reduction and oxidation of water. During the past decades, a few reviews on the research progress in designing and synthesizing new visible-light-responsive semiconductors for various applications in solar-to-chemical conversion have been published. However, those on the effects of their bulk and composite (surface/interface) nanostructures on basic processes as well as solar water splitting performances to produce hydrogen are still limited. In this review, a brief introduction on the relationship between the nanostructure photocatalytic properties is included. Three main processes of solar water splitting are involved, allowing the elucidation of the correlation with the nanostructural properties of the photocatalyst such as surface/interface, size, morphology, and bulk structure. Subsequently, the development of methodologies and strategies for modulating the bulk and composite structures to improve the efficiencies of the basic processes, particularly charge separation, is summarized in detail. Finally, the prospects of (oxy)nitride-based photocatalysts such as controlled synthesis, modulation of 1D/2D morphology, exposed facet regulation, heterostructure formation, theoretical simulation, and time- and space-resolved spectroscopy are discussed.

g-C3N4 Sensitized by an Indoline Dye for Photocatalytic H2 Evolution

Protonated g-C3N4 (pCN) formed by treating bulk g-C3N4 with an aqueous HCl solution was modified with D149 dye, i.e., 5-[[4[4-(2,2-diphenylethenyl) phenyl]-1,2,3,3a,4,8b-hexahydrocyclopent[b]indol-7-yl] methylene]-2-(3-ethyl-4-oxo-2-thioxo-5-thiazolidinylidene)-4-oxo-thiazolidin-2-ylidenerhodanine, for photocatalytic water splitting (using Pt as a co-catalyst). The D149/pCN-Pt composite showed a much higher rate (2138.2 µmol·h−1·g−1) of H2 production than pCN-Pt (657.0 µmol·h−1·g−1). Through relevant characterization, the significantly high activity of D149/pCN-Pt was linked to improved absorption of visible light, accelerated electron transfer, and more efficient separation of charge carriers. The presence of both D149 and Pt was found to be important for these factors. A mechanism was proposed.

Photocatalytic oxygen evolution triggered by photon upconverted emission based on triplet-triplet annihilation

A visible light responsive photocatalyst, Mo-doped BiVO4 (Mo:BVO), was shown to promote oxygen evolution from water in response to photon upconverted emission based on triplet-triplet annihilation (TTA) in the same aqueous dispersion. Composites comprising a triplet sensitizer (Pt(ii) octaethylporphyrin; PtOEP) and a singlet emitter (9,10-diphenylanthracene; DPA) intercalated in a layered clay compound (montmorillonite or saponite) were prepared using a facile but versatile solvothermal method. These composites were capable of converting green incident light (λ = 535 nm) to blue light (λ = 430 nm) even in air. The host layered clay as well as the co-intercalated surfactant evidently functioned as barriers against water and oxygen to prevent the quenching of the active compounds. The TTA upconversion driven photocatalytic oxygen evolution using the aqueous mixture of the dyes-clay composite and particulate photocatalysts can be a potential approach to eliminate the undesired optical losses and thus be a breakthrough for future industrial and large-scale installation in an inexpensive manner.

Recent Developments in the Use of Heterogeneous Semiconductor Photocatalyst Based Materials for a Visible-Light-Induced Water-Splitting System—A Brief Review

Visible-light-driven photoelectrochemical (PEC) and photocatalytic water splitting systems featuring heterogeneous semiconductor photocatalysts (oxynitrides, oxysulfides, organophotocatalysts) signify an environmentally friendly and promising approach for the manufacturing of renewable hydrogen fuel. Semiconducting electrode materials as the main constituents in the PEC water splitting system have substantial effects on the device’s solar-to-hydrogen (STH) conversion efficiency. Given the complication of the photocatalysis and photoelectrolysis methods, it is indispensable to include the different electrocatalytic materials for advancing visible-light-driven water splitting, considered a difficult challenge. Heterogeneous semiconductor-based materials with narrower bandgaps (2.5 to 1.9 eV), equivalent to the theoretical STH efficiencies ranging from 9.3% to 20.9%, are recognized as new types of photoabsorbents to engage as photoelectrodes for PEC water oxidation and have fascinated much consideration. Herein, we spotlight mainly on heterogenous semiconductor-based photoanode materials for PEC water splitting. Different heterogeneous photocatalysts based materials are emphasized in different groups, such as oxynitrides, oxysulfides, and organic solids. Lastly, the design approach and future developments regarding heterogeneous photocatalysts oxide electrodes for PEC applications and photocatalytic applications are also discussed.

Theoretical insights of codoping to modulate electronic structure of [Formula: see text] and [Formula: see text] for enhanced photocatalytic efficiency

[Formula: see text] and [Formula: see text] are well known materials in the field of photocatalysis due to their exceptional electronic structure, high chemical stability, non-toxicity and low cost. However, owing to the wide band gap, these can be utilized only in the UV region. Thus, it's necessary to expand their optical response in visible region by reducing their band gap through doping with metals, nonmetals or the combination of different elements, while retaining intact the photocatalytic efficiency. We report here, the codoping of a metal and a nonmetal in anatase [Formula: see text] and [Formula: see text] for efficient photocatalytic water splitting using hybrid density functional theory and ab initio atomistic thermodynamics. The latter ensures to capture the environmental effect to understand thermodynamic stability of the charged defects at a realistic condition. We have observed that the charged defects are stable in addition to neutral defects in anatase [Formula: see text] and the codopants act as donor as well as acceptor depending on the nature of doping (p-type or n-type). However, the most stable codopants in [Formula: see text] mostly act as donor. Our results reveal that despite the response in visible light region, the codoping in [Formula: see text] and [Formula: see text] cannot always enhance the photocatalytic activity due to either the formation of recombination centers or the large shift in the conduction band minimum or valence band maximum. Amongst various metal-nonmetal combinations, [Formula: see text] (i.e. Mn is substituted at Ti site and S is substituted at O site), [Formula: see text] in anatase [Formula: see text] and [Formula: see text], [Formula: see text] in [Formula: see text] are the most potent candidates to enhance the photocatalytic efficiency of anatase [Formula: see text] and [Formula: see text] under visible light irradiation.

Revisiting the Limiting Factors for Overall Water-Splitting on Organic Photocatalysts

In pursuit of inexpensive and earth abundant photocatalysts for solar hydrogen production from water, conjugated polymers have shown potential to be a viable alternative to widely used inorganic counterparts. The photocatalytic performance of polymeric photocatalysts, however, is very poor in comparison to that of inorganic photocatalysts. Most of the organic photocatalysts are active in hydrogen production only when a sacrificial electron donor (SED) is added into the solution, and their high performances often rely on presence of noble metal co-catalyst (e.g. Pt). For pursuing a carbon neutral and cost-effective green hydrogen production, unassisted hydrogen production solely from water is one of the critical requirements to translate a mere bench-top research interest into the real world applications. Although this is a generic problem for both inorganic and organic types of photocatalysts, organic photocatalysts are mostly investigated in the half-reaction, and have so far shown limited success in hydrogen production from overall water-splitting. To make progress, this article exclusively discusses critical factors that are limiting the overall water-splitting in organic photocatalysts. Additionally, we also have extended the discussion to issues related to stability, accurate reporting of the hydrogen production as well as challenges to be resolved to reach 10 % STH (solar-to-hydrogen) conversion efficiency.

Synthesis of zinc germanium oxynitride nanotube as a visible-light driven photocatalyst for NOx decomposition through ordered morphological transformation from Zn2GeO4 nanorod obtained by hydrothermal reaction

Oxynitrides with narrow band gap are promising materials as visible-light sensitive photocatalysts, because introduction of nitrogen ions can negatively shift the position of valence band maximum of the corresponding oxides to negative side. (Zn_1+xGe)(N₂O_x) with wurtzite structure is one of the oxynitride materials. (Zn_1+xGe)(N₂O_x) with nanotube morphology was synthesized by nitridation of Zn₂GeO₄ nanorods at 800 °C for 6 h. During the nitridation process, the nanorod with smooth surface was transformed into nanotube with rough surface in spite of no template for formation of tube structure. The nanotube formation can be caused by ordered morphological transformation from Zn₂GeO₄ nanorod during the nitridation. (Zn_1+xGe)(N₂O_x) nanotube exhibited a large specific surface area due to its nanotube morphology and the ability to be responsive to visible light because of the narrow band gap of 2.76 eV. Compared to (Zn_1+xGe)(N₂O_x) synthesized by conventional solid state reaction, the optimized (Zn_1+xGe)(N₂O_x) nanotube possessed enhanced photocatalytic NO_x decomposition activity under both ultraviolet and visible light irradiation.

Synthesis of Three-Layer Perovskite Oxynitride K2Ca2Ta3O9N·2H2O and Photocatalytic Activity for H2 Evolution under Visible Light

Substitution of oxide anions (O^2-) in a metal oxide for nitrogen (N^3-) results in reduction of the band gap, which is attractive in heterogeneous photocatalysis; however, only a handful of two-dimensional layered perovskite oxynitrides have been reported, and thus, the structural effects of layered oxynitrides on photocatalytic activity have not been sufficiently examined. This study reports the synthesis of a Ruddlesden-Popper phase three-layer oxynitride perovskite of K₂Ca₂Ta₃O₉N·2H₂O, and the photocatalytic activity is compared with an analogous two-layer perovskite, K₂LaTa₂O₆N·1.6H₂O. Topochemical ammonolysis reaction of a Dion-Jacobson phase oxide KCa₂Ta₃O₁₀ at 1173 K in the presence of K₂CO₃ resulted in a single-phase layered perovskite, K₂Ca₂Ta₃O₉N·2H₂O, which belongs to the tetragonal P4/mmm space group, as demonstrated by synchrotron X-ray diffraction, scanning transmission electron microscopy measurements, and elemental analysis. The synthesized K₂Ca₂Ta₃O₉N·2H₂O has an absorption edge at around 460 nm, with an estimated band gap of ca. 2.7 eV. K₂Ca₂Ta₃O₉N·2H₂O modified with a Pt cocatalyst generated H₂ from an aqueous solution containing a dissolved NaI as a reversible electron donor under visible light (λ > 400 nm) with no noticeable change in the crystal structure and light absorption properties. However, the H₂ evolution activity of K₂Ca₂Ta₃O₉N·2H₂O was an order of magnitude lower than that of K₂LaTa₂O₆N·1.6H₂O. Femtosecond transient absorption spectroscopy revealed that the lifetime of photogenerated mobile electrons in K₂Ca₂Ta₃O₉N·2H₂O was shorter than that in K₂LaTa₂O₆N·1.6H₂O, which could explain the low photocatalytic activity of K₂Ca₂Ta₃O₉N·2H₂O.

High-Quality Heteroepitaxial Growth of Thin Films of the Perovskite Oxynitride CaTaO2N: Importance of Interfacial Symmetry Matching between Films and Substrates

Perovskite oxynitrides have been studied with regard to their visible light-driven photocatalytic activity and novel electronic functionalities. The assessment of the intrinsic physical and/or electrochemical properties of oxynitrides requires the epitaxial growth of single-crystalline films. However, the heteroepitaxy of perovskite oxynitrides has not yet matured compared to the progress realized in work with perovskite oxides. Herein, we report the heteroepitaxial growth of CaTaO₂N thin films with (100)_pc, (110)_pc, and (111)_pc crystallographic surface orientations (where the subscript pc denotes a pseudocubic cell) on SrTiO₃ substrates using reactive radio frequency magnetron sputtering, along with investigations of crystallinity and surface morphology. Irrespective of surface orientation, stoichiometric CaTaO₂N epitaxial thin films were grown coherently on SrTiO₃ substrates and showed clear step and terrace surfaces in the case of low values of film thickness of approximately 20 nm. A (110)_pc-oriented film was also more highly crystalline than (100)_pc- and (111)_pc-oriented specimens. This relationship between crystallinity and surface orientation is ascribed to the number of inequivalent in-plane rotational domains, which stems from the symmetry mismatch between the orthorhombic CaTaO₂N and cubic SrTiO₃. A CaTaO₂N thin film grown on a lattice- and symmetry-matched orthorhombic DyScO₃ substrate exhibited a significant crystallinity and a clear step and terrace surface even though the film was thick (∼190 nm). These results are expected to assist in developing the heteroepitaxial growth of high-quality perovskite oxynitride thin films.

Mechanism analysis of Au, Ru noble metal clusters modified on TiO2 (101) to intensify overall photocatalytic water splitting

Accelerating the separation and migration of photo-carriers (electron-hole pairs) to improve the photo-quantum utilization efficiency in photocatalytic overall water splitting is highly desirable. Herein, the photo-deposition of Ru or Au noble metal clusters with superior electronic properties as a co-catalyst on the (101) facet of anatase TiO2 and the mechanism of intensifying the photocatalysis have been investigated by calculation based density functional theory (DFT). As a result, the as-synthesized Ru/TiO2 and Au/TiO2 exhibit high hydrogen evolution reaction (HER) activity. Such a greatly enhanced HER is attributed to the interfacial interactivity of the catalysts due to the existence of robust chemical bonds (Ru-O-Ti, Au-O-Ti) as electron-traps that provide the photogenerated electrons. In addition, the formation of new degenerate energy levels due to the existence of Ru-4d and Au-5d electronic impurity states leads to the narrowing of the band gap of the catalysts. In addition, the as-synthesized Au/TiO2 exhibits more faster HER rate than Ru/TiO2, which is attributed to the effects of surface plasmon resonance (SPR) as a synergistic effect of plasmon-induced 'hot' electrons that enhance the harvesting of the final built-in electric field and promote the migration and separation of the photo-carriers, which efficiently facilitates hydrogen evolution from the photocatalytic overall water splitting reaction.

Synthesis, crystal structure, and magnetic properties of oxynitride perovskites SrMn0.2M0.8O2.6N0.4 (M = Nb, Ta)

Complex perovskites SrMn0.2Nb0.8O2.6N0.4 and SrMn0.2Ta0.8O2.6N0.4 were synthesized; these are rare examples of octahedral Mn2+ in oxynitride perovskites. Joint Rietveld refinement of neutron and X-ray data revealed that SrMn0.2Nb0.8O2.6N0.4 and SrMn0.2Ta0.8O2.6N0.4 had orthorhombic symmetries, in contrast with those of analogous perovskites SrM'0.2M0.8O3-xNx (M' = Li, Na, Mg; M = Nb, Ta), which are all tetragonal. Both SrMn0.2Nb0.8O2.6N0.4 and SrMn0.2Ta0.8O2.6N0.4 exhibited paramagnetic behavior with effective magnetic moments of 5.60μB and 5.94μB, respectively, consistent with a high-spin Mn2+ (d5, S = 5/2) state. The Weiss constants were -24.7 K for SrMn0.2Nb0.8O2.6N0.4 and -15.4 K for SrMn0.2Ta0.8O2.6N0.4, indicating the presence of weak antiferromagnetic spin-spin interactions. The band gaps of SrMn0.2Nb0.8O2.6N0.4 and SrMn0.2Ta0.8O2.6N0.4 were determined to be 1.75 eV and 2.2 eV, respectively, suggesting that the Mn 3d electrons were essentially localized.

Examining the surface evolution of LaTiOxNy an oxynitride solar water splitting photocatalyst

LaTiO_xN_y oxynitride thin films are employed to study the surface modifications at the solid-liquid interface that occur during photoelectrocatalytic water splitting. Neutron reflectometry and grazing incidence x-ray absorption spectroscopy were utilised to distinguish between the surface and bulk signals, with a surface sensitivity of 3 nm. Here we show, contrary to what is typically assumed, that the A cations are active sites that undergo oxidation at the surface as a consequence of the water splitting process. Whereas, the B cations undergo local disordering with the valence state remaining unchanged. This surface modification reduces the overall water splitting efficiency, but is suppressed when the oxynitride thin films are decorated with a co-catalyst. With this example we present the possibilities of surface sensitive studies using techniques capable of operando measurements in water, opening up new opportunities for applications to other materials and for surface sensitive, operando studies of the water splitting process.

Photobiocatalytic H2 evolution of GaN:ZnO and [FeFe]-hydrogenase recombinant Escherichia coli

The need for sustainable, renewable and low-cost approaches is a driving force behind the development of solar-to-H₂ conversion technologies.

Water Oxidation Catalysts for Artificial Photosynthesis

Water oxidation is the primary reaction of both natural and artificial photosynthesis. Developing active and robust water oxidation catalysts (WOCs) is the key to constructing efficient artificial photosynthesis systems, but it is still facing enormous challenges in both fundamental and applied aspects. Here, the recent developments in molecular catalysts and heterogeneous nanoparticle catalysts are reviewed with special emphasis on biomimetic catalysts and the integration of WOCs into artificial photosystems. The highly efficient artificial photosynthesis depends largely on active WOCs integrated into light harvesting materials via rational interface engineering based on in-depth understanding of charge dynamics and the reaction mechanism.

Preparation of (Zn1+xGe)(N2Ox) nanoparticles with enhanced NOx decomposition activity under visible light irradiation by nitridation of Zn2GeO4 nanoparticles designed precisely

Quaternary zinc germanium oxynitride (Zn_1+xGe)(N₂O_x), a solid solution between ZnGeN₂ and ZnO with a wurtzite structure, is one of the attractive photocatalysts under visible-light irradiation. In this study, the synthesis of (Zn_1+xGe)(N₂O_x) nanoparticles was achieved by the nitridation of Zn₂GeO₄ nanoparticles designed precisely to enhance their photocatalytic NO_x decomposition activity under both UV and visible light irradiation. The obtained (Zn_1+xGe)(N₂O_x) nanoparticles exhibited a high specific surface area and visible light absorption induced by the narrow band gap of ca. 2.6-2.8 eV, both of which are reasons for the enhancement of photocatalytic activity. The oxide precursors with a nanoparticle morphology were prepared by a facile solvothermal method with various volumes of TEA (triethanolamine) as an additive. The relationships of nitridation time and TEA volume in the solvothermal reaction for the synthesis of the precursor with morphology, specific surface area, and photocatalytic NO_x decomposition activity of the nitrided samples were investigated. The increase of active sites by the high surface area and the enhanced visible-light absorption ability as well as the defect amounts and states can be largely related to the excellent NO_x decomposition activity of (Zn_1+xGe)(N₂O_x).

Oxygen-Functionalized and Ni+x (x=2, 3)-Coordinated Graphitic Carbon Nitride Nanosheets with Long-Life Deep-Trap States and their Direct Solar-Light-Driven Hydrogen Evolution Activity

Graphitic carbon nitride, a 2 D layered photocatalyst coupled with transition metal oxides often shows promising photocatalytic hydrogen evolution activity. However, low surface area and poor charge separation greatly hinder its photocatalytic efficiency. A Ni^+x (x=2, 3)/O-g-C₃ N₄ photocatalyst with a very high specific surface area (199 m²  g^-1 ) has been prepared by thermal condensation and wet-impregnation methods. The oxygen-functionalized and Ni^+x (x=2, 3)-coordinated g-C₃ N₄ produced 1664 μmol g^-1 of hydrogen evolution from water under direct solar light irradiation in 4 h, which is 23 times higher than that over O-g-C₃ N₄ . This significant enhancement results from the combined effects of large surface area, the formation of long-life deep-trap states, effective charge carrier separation, and extended visible light absorption. The separation and transport behavior of the charge carriers are investigated by photoluminescence, time-resolved photoluminescence, photocurrent and Mott-Schottky measurements. Additionally, the interaction between Ni^+x (x=2, 3) and O-g-C₃ N₄ is studied by X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy, X-ray diffraction, and FTIR spectroscopy. The Ni^+x (x=2, 3)/O-g-C₃ N₄ photocatalyst shows remarkable reusability over a period of two months (six cycles). This study may provide a pathway to simultaneously overcome the challenges of low surface area and poor charge separation in g-C₃ N₄ -based photocatalysts.

Perovskites with d-block metals for solar energy applications

Pb2+ halide organic-inorganic perovskites are excellent semiconductors for use in solar energy applications, but at the expense of robustness and environmental compatibility. Tin (Sn), which sits just above lead in the periodic table, forms pure (or mixed with lead) perovskites when at the 2+ or 4+ oxidation state. It can act as a promising alternative; however, there are still some serious concerns regarding its suitability. This presents a major challenge; viable metal cations have to be identified. A good number of elements, originating from a large range of d-block metal ions, with adequate oxidation states, moderate toxicity, and relative abundance, seem ideal for this purpose. In this review, we present the most characteristic perovskites (conventional perovskites, layered, or double perovskites) that can be formed with the help of these metals. We focus on d-block metal ions with stable oxidation states, such as Ag+ or Ti4+, which have exhibited satisfactory photovoltaic properties until now. Further, we highlight the results involving compounds other than halide perovskites, such as oxides, chalcogenides, and nitrides (as well as oxyhalides, oxysulfides, and oxynitrides); a few of them are ferroelectric (based on Ti4+, Zr4+, Fe3+, and Cr3+) and can yield a photovoltage that exceeds the bandgap of the material. Finally, we present the critical challenges that currently limit the efficiency of these systems and propose prospects for future directions.

Development of Mixed-Anion Photocatalysts with Wide Visible-Light Absorption Bands for Solar Water Splitting

Rapid fossil-fuel consumption, severe environmental concerns, and growing energy demands call for the exploitation of environmentally friendly, recyclable, new energy sources. Fuel-producing artificial systems that directly convert solar energy into fuels by mimicking natural photosynthesis are expected to achieve this goal. Among them, the conversion of solar energy into hydrogen energy through the photocatalytic water-splitting process over a particulate semiconductor is one of the most promising routes due to advantages such as simplicity, cheapness, and ease of large-scale production. Abundant metal oxide photocatalysts have been developed in the last century, but most are only active under UV-light irradiation. To harvest a much wider range of the solar spectrum, the development of photocatalysts with wide visible-light absorption bands has become increasingly popular this century. Herein, a brief overview of materials developed for promising solar water splitting, with an emphasis on a mixed-anion structure and wide visible-light absorption bands, is presented, with some basic information on the principles, approaches, and research progress on the photocatalytic water-splitting reaction with particulate semiconductors. Typical progress on research into one- and two-step (Z-scheme) overall water-splitting systems by utilizing mixed-anion photocatalysts is highlighted, together with research strategies and modification methods.

Heterostructure of 1D Ta3 N5 Nanorod/BaTaO2 N Nanoparticle Fabricated by a One-Step Ammonia Thermal Route for Remarkably Promoted Solar Hydrogen Production

Heterostructures are widely fabricated for promotion of photogenerated charge separation and solar cell/fuel production. (Oxy)nitrides are extremely promising for solar energy conversion, but the fabrication of heterostructures based on nitrogen-containing semiconductors is still challenging. Here, a simple ammonia thermal synthesis of a heterostructure (denoted as Ta₃ N₅ /BTON) composed of 1D Ta₃ N₅ nanorods and BaTaO₂ N (BTON) nanoparticles (0D), which is demonstrated to result in a remarkable increase in photogenerated charge separation and solar hydrogen production from water, is introduced. As analyzed and discussed, the Ta₃ N₅ /BTON heterostructure is type II and tends to create intimate interfaces between the 1D nanorods and 0D nanoparticles. The 1D Ta₃ N₅ nanorods are demonstrated to transfer electrons along the rod orientation direction. Furthermore, the intimate interfaces of the heterostructure are believed to originate from the similar Ta-based octahedron units of Ta₃ N₅ and BTON. All of the above features are expected to integrally endow increased photoinduced charge separation and one order of magnitude higher solar overall water splitting activity with respect to counterpart systems. These results may open a new avenue to fabricate heterostructures on the basis of nitrogen-containing semiconductors that is extremely promising for solar energy conversion.

Band Gap Modulation of Tantalum(V) Perovskite Semiconductors by Anion Control

Band gap magnitudes and valence band energies of Ta5+ containing simple perovskites (BaTaO2N, SrTaO2N, CaTaO2N, KTaO3, NaTaO3, and TaO2F) were studied by diffuse reflection absorbance measurements, density-functional theoretical calculations, and X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy. As a universal trend, the oxynitrides have wider valence bands and narrower band gaps than isostructural oxides, owing to the N 2p contribution to the electronic structure. Visible light-driven water splitting was achieved by using Pt-loaded CaTaO2N, together with a sacrificial agent CH3OH.

Distinguishing the effects of altered morphology and size on the visible light-induced water oxidation activity and photoelectrochemical performance of BaTaO2N crystal structures

The effects of altered morphology and size on the visible light-induced water oxidation activity and photoelectrochemical performance of BaTaO₂N crystal structures were studied.

The role of synthesis conditions for structural defects and lattice strain in β-TaON and their effect on photo- and photoelectrocatalysis

The importance of the synthesis conditions on the structural and photocatalytic properties of tantalum oxide nitride was investigated by comparing two variants of phase-pure β-TaON obtained from application of two different synthesis routes, leading to one unstrained and one heavily anisotropically microstrained β-TaON as shown by XRD-based Rietveld refinement. HRTEM images reveal the origin of the strain to be lattice defects such as stacking faults. The strained β-TaON was found to be the clearly less active semiconductor in photochemical and photoelectrochemical water oxidation. The lattice defects are assumed to act as charge carrier traps hindering the photo-generated holes to be displaced to the reaction sites at the surface.

Anion Order and Spontaneous Polarization in LaTiO_{2}N Oxynitride Thin Films

The perovskite oxynitride LaTiO_{2}N is a promising material for photocatalytic water splitting under visible light. One of the obstacles towards higher efficiencies of this and similar materials stems from charge-carrier recombination, which could be suppressed by the surface charges resulting from the dipolar field in polar materials. In this study, we investigate the spontaneous polarization in epitaxially strained LaTiO_{2}N thin films via density functional theory calculations. The effect of epitaxial strain on the anion order, resulting out-of-plane polarization, energy barriers for polarization reversal, and corresponding coercive fields are studied. We find that for compressive strains larger than 4% the thermodynamically stable anion order is polar along the out-of-plane direction and has a coercive field comparable to other switchable ferroelectrics. Our results show that strained LaTiO_{2}N could indeed suppress carrier recombination and lead to enhanced photocatalytic activities.

Bulk and surface properties of the Ruddlesden–Popper oxynitride Sr2TaO3N

Sr₂TaO₃N(001) surface states lead to spatial electron–hole separation, rationalising the good photocatalytic activity of this Ruddlesden–Popper oxynitride.

Decoupling the Effects of High Crystallinity and Surface Area on the Photocatalytic Overall Water Splitting over β-Ga2 O3 Nanoparticles by Chemical Vapor Synthesis

Chemical vapor synthesis (CVS) is a unique method to prepare well-defined photocatalyst materials with both large specific surface area and a high degree of crystallinity. The obtained β-Ga₂ O₃ nanoparticles were optimized for photocatalysis by reductive photodeposition of the Rh/CrO_x co-catalyst system. The influence of the degree of crystallinity and the specific surface area on photocatalytic aqueous methanol reforming and overall water splitting (OWS) was investigated by synthesizing β-Ga₂ O₃ samples in the temperature range from 1000 °C to 1500 °C. With increasing temperature, the specific surface area and the microstrain were found to decrease, whereas the degree of crystallinity and the crystallite size increased. Whereas the photocatalyst with the highest specific surface area showed the highest aqueous methanol reforming activity, the highest OWS activity was that for the sample with an optimum ratio between high degree of crystallinity and specific surface area. Thus, it was possible to show that the facile aqueous methanol reforming and the demanding OWS have different requirements for high photocatalytic activity.

Charge transport, interfacial interactions and synergistic mechanisms in BiNbO4/MWO4 (M = Zn and Cd) heterostructures for hydrogen production: insights from a DFT+U study

In the 21st century, the growing demand of global energy is one of the key challenges. The photocatalytic generation of hydrogen has attracted extensive attention to discuss the increasing global demand for sustainable and clean energy. However, hydrogen evolution reactions normally use the economically expensive rare noble metals and the processes remain a challenge. Herein, low-cost BiNbO₄/MWO₄(010) heterostructures are studied for the first time to check their suitability towards photocatalytic hydrogen production. A theoretical study with the aid of density functional theory (DFT) is used to investigate the synergistic effect, ionisation energy, electron affinities, charge transfer, electronic properties and the underlying mechanism for hydrogen generation of BiNbO₄/MWO₄(010) heterostructures. The experimental band gaps of bulk ZnWO₄, CdWO₄ and BiNbO₄ are well reproduced using the DFT+U method. The calculated band edge position shows a type-II staggered band alignment and the charge transfer between BiNbO₄ and MWO₄ monolayers results in a large interfacial built-in potential, which will favour the separation of charge carriers in the heterostructures. The effective mass of the photoinduced holes is higher compared to the electrons, making the heterostructures useful in hydrogen production. The relatively low ionisation energy and electron affinity for the heterostructures compared to the monolayers make them ideal for photocatalysis applications due to their small energy barrier for the injection of electrons and creation of holes. The BiNbO₄/MWO₄(010) heterostructures are more suitable for photocatalytic hydrogen production due to their strong reducing power relative to the H⁺/H₂O potential. This study sheds light on the less known BiNbO₄/ZnWO₄(010) heterostructures and the fully explored electronic and optical properties will pave way for future photocatalytic water splitting applications.