Recent advances in the construction of structurally diverse catalysts for enhanced photocatalytic CO2 reduction

Photocatalysis is an effective way to address environmental CO2 pollution and the energy crisis caused by fossil fuel consumption by efficiently transforming CO2 into high-value-added chemicals. In this review, we focus on the key processes (light capture, electron-hole (e--h+) pairs separate and transfer, CO2 gas adsorption) in CO2 photoreduction (CO2RR). We discuss recent progress in research into the strategy and the rational structure construction of photocatalyst materials such as SPR effect, single atom, surface modification and gas–liquid-solid three-phase system, diverse structures, and such as hollow/porous architectures, surface defects, heterojunctions, dual cocatalysts, and so on. These from the perspective of improving photocatalytic performance by improving light absorption, enhancing CO2 adsorption, and effectively separating photogenerated e--h+, also from the perspective towards practicality. Finally, considering the current statuses of the catalyst structures presented, future research challenges and priorities are discussed.