Ultrathin two-dimensional photocatalysts for carbon dioxide reduction into fuels and chemicals

The extensive burning of fossil fuels has caused energy shortages and worsened the greenhouse effect, posing a significant threat to human survival and development. The use of solar energy as a renewable source to reduce CO2 emissions and produce green fuels and high-value chemicals is seen as a promising solution to the ongoing energy crisis. Ultrathin two-dimensional photocatalysts have large surface areas and numerous low-coordination surface atoms, giving them substantial potential for highly efficient photocatalytic performance. These materials can reduce carrier transmission distance, enhance reactant adsorption and activation (e.g., CO2 and H2O), lower energy barriers, facilitate specific reactions, inhibit competing reactions, and regulate catalytic efficiency and selectivity. This article provides a concise overview of ultrathin two-dimensional semiconductor synthesis, clarifies catalytic mechanisms, explores various photocatalytic applications, and outlines strategies to enhance photoconversion performance. It also emphasizes the primary challenges and opportunities faced by ultrathin photocatalysts. We anticipate that this review will offer valuable insights for further research in two-dimensional photocatalysis and encourage the practical application of these unique materials in energy conversion. (c) 2023 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.