0D, 1D and 2D nanomaterials for visible photoelectrochemical water splitting. A Review

Global energy problems of the 21st century have led to the search for alternative energy sources, among which is hydrogen produced via photoelectrochemical solar water splitting. Photo-electrochemical water splitting using semiconductor nanostructured materials is a progressive method for producing hydrogen. The unique electronic, mechanical, surface and optical properties of nanomaterials make it possible to create photocatalysts with complex structures of energy zones, allowing the use of a wide range of sunlight and exerting a positive effect on absorption and scattering of sunlight. This review contains a detailed analysis of current studies aimed at improving the efficiency of photocatalytic systems by using 0D, 1D and 2D nanostructures. Special attention is paid to the mechanisms of photocatalytic water splitting to produce hydrogen with the help of various nanostructures. (c) 2020 Hydrogen Energy Publications LLC. Published by Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.