A review of TiO2 nanostructured catalysts for sustainable H2 generation

Mingzheng Ge, Jingsheng Cai, James Iocozzia, Chunyan Cao, Jianying Huang, Xinnan Zhang, Jiali Shen, Shanchi Wang, Songnan Zhang, Ke Qin Zhang, Yuekun Lai, Zhiqun Lin

Research output: Contribution to journalReview articlepeer-review

343 Scopus citations

Abstract

Hydrogen is an attractive alternative to fossil fuels that addresses several environmental and energy shortage issues. Nano-sized TiO2-based photocatalysts with unique structural and functional properties are the most extensively studied photocatalytic nanomaterials for hydrogen production and pollutant degradation. However, titania is hampered by a wide band gap, low utilization of solar light and a rapid recombination of electron/hole pairs. These issues limit its photocatalytic performance. In this review, we present the latest developments in the fabrication of different higher dimensional TiO2 nanostructured materials that aim to address these inherent limitations to an otherwise very promising material. Specifically, we will look into critical engineering strategies to enlarge the active surface area, enhance visible light absorption and suppress the recombination of electrons/holes that benefit their photo/photoelectric-catalytic water splitting activity. Finally, the current challenges and perspectives for TiO2 nanostructures are also discussed. Continuous efforts are necessary to endow TiO2-based materials with novel advanced functionality and commercialization potential in the coming years.

Original languageEnglish
Pages (from-to)8418-8449
Number of pages32
JournalInternational Journal of Hydrogen Energy
Volume42
Issue number12
DOIs
StatePublished - 23 Mar 2017

Bibliographical note

Publisher Copyright:
© 2016 Hydrogen Energy Publications LLC

Keywords

  • Catalyst
  • Hydrogen production
  • Photocatalysis
  • Photoelectrocatalysis
  • TiO nanostructure

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