Research progress on photocatalytic reduction of CO2 based on ferroelectric materials

Abstract

Transforming CO₂ into renewable fuels or valuable carbon compounds could be a practical means to tackle the issues of global warming and energy crisis. Photocatalytic CO₂ reduction is more energy-efficient and environmentally friendly, and offers a broader range of potential applications than other CO₂ conversion techniques. Ferroelectric materials, which belong to a class of materials with switchable polarization, are attractive candidates as catalysts due to their distinctive and substantial impact on surface physical and chemical characteristics. This review provides a concise overview of the fundamental principles underlying photocatalysis and the mechanism involved in CO₂ reduction. Additionally, the composition and properties of ferroelectric materials are introduced. This review expands on the research progress in using ferroelectric materials for photocatalytic reduction of CO₂ from three perspectives: directly as a catalyst, by modification, and construction of heterojunctions. Finally, the future potential of ferroelectric materials for photocatalytic CO₂ reduction is presented. This review may be a valuable guide for creating reasonable and more effective photocatalysts based on ferroelectric materials.