Recent advances in 2D semiconductor nanomaterials for photocatalytic CO2 reduction

For decades, global warming and energy shortages have been two urgent problems in human society. The solar-driven photocatalytic conversion of carbon dioxide (CO2) into hydrocarbon fuels is expected to become a technology to solve these problems. Two-dimensional (2D) materials shine in the field of photocatalytic CO2 due to their layered structure, larger specific surface area, more active sites, and larger charge transfer efficiency. This article reviews the progress of CO2 reduction by several types of 2D materials in recent years. Generally, the reduction of CO2 is difficult in terms of kinetics and thermodynamics, but it is found through theoretical calculations and experiments that 2D materials have certain advantages in the reduction of CO2. Then the preparation methods of 2D materials are summarized and a variety of 2D materials are discussed and classified. Finally, an outlook on the development trend of 2D materials is made. This review aims to provide systematic and concise guidance for the design of 2D nanomaterials for photocatalytic CO2 reduction.