Recent advances in photothermal catalysis: Coupling hydrogen evolution and organic conversion

Abstract

Photothermal catalysis, as a green and sustainable technology, has attracted increasing attention in the fields of clean energy and green organic synthesis. Integrating photothermal catalysis with solar-driven hydrogen production and organic synthetic chemistry has become a promising strategy for sustainable energy generation with great research and practical value. In this review, we present an overview of the background of solar-driven photothermal catalytic reactions, introduce the fundamental principles of photocatalysis, thermal catalysis, and photothermal reduction of hydrogen coupled with selective oxidation of organic compounds, and summarize the recent advances in photothermal semiconductor catalysts such as carbon-based materials, titanium-based materials, noble metal composites, and metal sulfides. We also highlight the recent advances in the application of these catalysts in photothermal catalytic water splitting for hydrogen generation and selective oxidation of organic compounds. Finally, we address the challenges and opportunities faced by solar-drive photothermal catalysts in the synergism of photocatalytic hydrogen production and selective oxidation of organic compounds. The aim is to provide guiding insights for the rational design of this dual-function catalytic system, offering a green pathway for the development of clean energy and selective oxidation in organic synthesis.