Advancements in Photocatalytic Materials for Solar-Driven Water Splitting and Clean Energy Solutions

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Background

In recent decades, the field of solar energy conversion, utilization, and environmental remediation techniques has undergone remarkable advancements. These developments have been driven by the emergence of state-of-the-art photoenergy materials that possess exceptional surface properties, leading to significant progress in catalytic processes. Photocatalysis, in particular, involves the utilization of efficient photocatalytic materials to harness visible light and convert solar energy into renewable and storable chemical energy. Among the various applications, solar-driven water splitting has emerged as a highly promising method for producing hydrogen from water. A range of materials, including g-C3N4, graphene oxide, and metal-oxide semiconductors, have demonstrated great potential in addressing the global energy challenge. As ongoing research continues to uncover new insights, these materials are expected to play a substantial role in the development of efficient and sustainable photocatalytic processes, offering promising solutions to meet the worldwide demand for green energy.

This Research Topic aims to drive the advancement of sustainable energy solutions. Through the exploration of novel materials for photocatalytic processes, we aim to efficiently harness solar energy and convert it into storable chemical energy. Our specific focus lies in the development of advanced materials for solar-driven water splitting, which holds great promise for clean hydrogen production and serves as a pathway towards clean energy generation. Moreover, our research endeavors extend beyond hydrogen generation, encompassing the conversion of various substances into fuel. Notably, we aim to address pressing environmental concerns, such as the conversion of carbon dioxide into hydrocarbons.

To gather further insights in the realm of photocatalysis and sustainable energy solutions, we welcome articles addressing, but not limited to, the following themes:
- Photocatalytic Materials: Investigate novel photoenergy materials and their surfaces, emphasizing their unique catalytic properties and ideal bandgap structures.
- Solar-Driven Water Splitting: Explore advancements in the solar-driven water splitting technique for efficient and clean hydrogen production from water.
- Diverse Photocatalytic Applications: Beyond hydrogen generation, investigate the conversion of various substances into fuel, with a special emphasis on addressing environmental concerns such as the conversion of carbon dioxide into hydrocarbons.
- Material-Specific Contributions: Highlight the unique features and contributions of promising materials like g-C3N4, graphene oxide, and metal-oxide semiconductors in addressing global energy challenges.

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Keywords: Solar energy conversion, Photocatalysis, Water splitting, Hydrogen generation, Sustainable energy, Carbon dioxide conversion

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