A review on particulate photocatalytic hydrogen production system: Progress made in achieving high energy conversion efficiency and key challenges ahead

Photocatalytic water splitting is a sustainable and clean method to produce renewable hydrogen. The particulate photocatalytic water splitting system has been envisioned as an efficient and cost-effective solution for large-scale hydrogen production. Herein, we have reviewed the various existing particulate photocatalytic systems for hydrogen production via overall water splitting, as well as via photo-reforming of biomass-derived organic substances. The progress made in improving the apparent quantum efficiency and solar to the hydrogen conversion efficiency of existing photocatalysts is highlighted. The factors affecting the particulate photocatalytic water splitting system are summarized. Finally, some of the key limitations and future perspectives on large-scale hydrogen production are discussed.