Elemental-Doped Catalysts for Photoelectrochemical CO₂ Conversion to Solar Fuels

Solar-driven photoelectrochemical (PEC) carbon dioxide (CO2) conversion to valuable chemicals, combining the advantages of photocatalysis and electrocatalysis, represents a promising approach toward establishing a carbon-neutral society and harnessing solar energy. Photoelectrode materials doped with metals and/or nonmetals have shown promise in achieving high CO2 reduction efficiency. Metal or nonmetal doping entails introducing a heteroelement into the semiconductor, thereby modifying the band potentials of the semiconductor through the addition of a defective state. This alteration may improve the charge transfer kinetics of the catalysis. Furthermore, doping aids in creating active CO2 adsorption offers anchoring sites for CO2 molecules and can promote product selectivity. This review aims to provide a concise summary of elemental-doped photoelectrodes for converting CO2 into fuels through PEC processes. Several key factors affecting the performance of PEC CO2 reduction are discussed, including the interaction of reactants with catalysts, reaction conditions, and the impact of the photoelectrode. Moreover, various PEC CO2 reduction systems are discussed, with a specific focus on enhancing the efficiency of CO2 reduction. Finally, a summary of key considering aspects for further development of the PEC CO2 reduction is provided.