One-dimensional Nanostructures for Photocatalytic Organic Synthesis

Converting solar energy directly into chemical energy by means of artificial photosynthesis provides a flexible option for energy storage and transportation. The material's structure and morphology, wisely tailored via a nanochemistry approach, could lead to desirable photocatalytic performances. The smallest dimension structures, one-dimensional nanostructures which could be utilized for efficient electrons and optical excitations transmit, are expected to play an important role in photocatalytic organic synthesis, a typical example of artificial photosynthesis. In this review, we describe current progresses in photocatalytic organic synthesis research, including photocatalytic selective oxidation of alcohols, nitroaromatic compounds reductions, and reduction of CO2 to renewable fuels, with centered on profits of one-dimensional morphology. The possible research directions are presented along with typical instances of some current advances in this area, which involves co-catalysts, light-absorbers as well as charge transport units of one-dimensional nano-structures.