2D Transition metal dichalcogenides for photovoltaic, hydrogen production, and CO2 photoreduction

Abstract

Utilization of fossil-based conventional energy is one of major contributor of global warming due to its carbon emission. In this context, maximizing the potency of solar energy as the most renewable energy sources could be crucial for transition into cleaner and more sustainable energy. Two-dimensional transition metal dichalcogenide (2D TMDs) are appealing materials for harvesting solar light to support clean energy production and preserve environment due to their tuneable electronic and optoelectronic properties. This work discusses the unique properties of 2D TMDs for effective solar light conversion and their promising light-harvesting application through solar photovoltaics, photoelectrochemical (PEC) water splitting to drive hydrogen evolution reaction (HER), and carbon dioxide (CO2) photoreduction. To enhance the performances of 2D TMDs, several engineering routes such as phase and structure engineering, vacancy and heteroatoms doping, and heterojunction allow modification of their structure, optoelectronic property, and catalytic activity according to the intended application. We outline the fundamental properties of 2D TMDs and their respective correlation with solar energy application along with their recent advances in solar cells, PEC cells for HER, and CO2 photoreduction. The outlook focuses on further exploitation of the uniqueness of 2D TMDs for high and reliable performances to accelerate the large-scale commercialization, paving the way for clean and sustainable future.

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