Advances on Emerging Integrated Photocapacitors: Strategies, Design, and Challenges

The energy crisis necessitates the development and utilization of renewable energy sources. Integrated photocapacitors have gained attention due to their integrated design for energy conversion and storage, offering a novel solution for efficient solar energy utilization. This review outlines the relevant mechanisms of integrated photocapacitors and presents a new theoretical model based on the current state of research. A comprehensive overview of recent research advances in integrated photocapacitors is provided, focusing on the unique mechanisms and properties of various photosensitive materials when combined with different energy storage materials. Additionally, frontier advances in this emerging field are assessed, aiming to provide insights into pathways for improving the efficiency and future commercialization of integrated devices. It focuses on the relationships between electrode materials, fundamental reactions, and mechanisms of operation, as well as power mismatches and long-term stability issues between photovoltaic conversion and energy storage units.