Doped nanomaterials: Application in hydrogen production via photocatalytic water splitting

A green and sustainable energy resource is needed to meet global energy demand and minimize environmental pollution. Hydrogen (H2) is a clean and renewable energy that can be generated via photocatalytic splitting of water. Recent studies on the application of doped photocatalysts in water splitting are numerous. Here, metal and non-metal ion doped photocatalysts with their H2 production capacity has been reviewed. Firstly, the influence of metal/non-metal dopants on the properties of host semiconductors were deduced. Then, metal (alkaline earth, transition and inner-transition metal ions) and non-metal ions doped photocatalysts with their water splitting capacity were discussed. Different metal compounds and carbon nitride materials were used as host photocatalysts. The experimental conditions which influence the efficiency of the doped photocatalysts in H2 generation were highlighted. Strategies such as multi-ionic doping process, composite construction and defect creation for the enhancement of activity of doped photocatalysts in water splitting were also summarized. At last, the challenges, future directions and conclusions derived from this literature review were outlined.