Two-dimensional semiconductor heterostructures for photocatalytic CO2 conversion

The CO2 reduction into carbon-contained fuel via solar energy offers the powerful tools to realize the zero-emission carbon cycle. Owing to the intriguing features of the two-dimensional (2D) heterostructures, it is susceptible to modulate the electronic structure as well as the surface geometry for optimizing the photocatalytic CO2 reactivity. From this perspective, we surveyed the fundamental insights of 2D semiconductor heterostructures, involving the fabrication strategies and classification of the 2D semiconductor heterostructure. Also, we have detailly discussed the overview of 2D semiconductor heterostructure for optimizing CO2 photocatalytic influenced factors, including the solar energy utilization, photogenerated carriers separation, and redox reaction kinetics. Afterwards, we showed the significant advantages of 2D heterostructures in elevating CO2 photoreduction performance, focusing on activity, selectivity and photostability. By analyzing the limitations and developments, we ended by putting forward insights into the further researches about the CO2 photocatalysts and reactor design, even industrial applications.