Solar-wind energy complementary coupling realizes magnetic-field assisted efficient photocatalytic CO2 reduction

We report the synthesis of a Z-scheme monolithic photocatalyst in the form of copper foam (CF) supported TiO2 combining Cu2O and Ag nanoparticles (CF@TiO2/Cu2O-Ag). The designed catalysts with efficient charge sepa-ration show superior photocatalytic activity toward CO2 reduction, with a maximum CO yielding rate of 25.58 & mu;mol & BULL;g-1 & BULL;h-1. More importantly, we develop a solar-wind energy complementary device, which enables the strong coupling of the magnetic field into the photocatalytic reaction. Specifically, the in-situ space electric field generated from the wind-driven induced electromotive force further enhances the separation and transportation of photogenerated charge carriers in the Z-scheme system. The productivity of CO in the proof-of-concept device based on the use of CF@TiO2/Cu2O-Ag catalyst reaches 71.66 & mu;mol & BULL;g-1 & BULL;h-1. This study provides an ideal approach for reinforcing photocatalytic CO2 reduction through muti-field coupling and highlights the prospect of solar-wind energy coupled photocatalysis.

Automated summary

We synthesized a Z-scheme monolithic photocatalyst using copper foam as a support, incorporating Cu2O and Ag nanoparticles. The designed catalysts, with efficient charge separation, exhibited superior photocatalytic activity for CO2 reduction, yielding a maximum rate of 25.58 μmol•g-1•h-1. Additionally, we developed a solar-wind energy complementary device that facilitated strong coupling of the magnetic field and photocatalytic reaction. This study provides an ideal approach for enhancing photocatalytic CO2 reduction through multi-field coupling and demonstrates the potential of solar-wind energy coupled photocatalysis.