Supramolecular assembly-derived carbon-nitrogen-based functional materials for photo/electrochemical applications: progress and challenges

Supramolecular chemistry during the synthesis of carbon-nitrogen-based materials has recently experienced a renaissance in the arena of photocatalysis and electrocatalysis. In this review, we start with the discussion of supramolecular assemblies-derived carbon-nitrogen-based materials’ regulation from the aspect of morphology, chemical composition, and micro/nanostructural control. Afterwards the recent advances of these materials in energy and environment related applications, including degradation of pollutants, water splitting, oxygen reduction reactions, CO₂ reduction reactions along with organic synthesis are summarized. The correlations between the structural features and physicochemical properties of the carbon-nitrogen-based materials and the specific catalytic activity are discussed in-depth. By highlighting the opportunities and challenges of supramolecular assembly strategies, we attempt an outlook on possible future developments for highly efficient carbon-based photo/electrocatalysts.