Nanomaterial catalysts for organic photoredox catalysis-mechanistic perspective

Solar energy conversions play a vital role in the renewable energy industry. In recent years, photoredox organic transformations have been explored as an alternative way to use solar energy. Catalysts for such photocatalytic systems have evolved from homogeneous metal complexes to heterogeneous nanomaterials over the past few decades. Herein, three important carrier transfer mechanisms are presented, including charge transfer, energy transfer and hot carrier transfer. Several models established by researchers to understand the catalytic reaction mechanisms are also illustrated, which promote the reaction system design based on theoretical studies. New strategies are introduced in order to enhance catalytic efficiency for future prospects.

Automated summary

Solar energy conversions are crucial in the renewable energy industry, and photoredox organic transformations have emerged as an alternative way to utilize solar energy. Catalysts for photocatalytic systems have evolved from homogeneous metal complexes to heterogeneous nanomaterials, with researchers establishing models to understand catalytic reaction mechanisms for system design based on theoretical studies. New strategies have been introduced to enhance catalytic efficiency for future prospects.