Rational Design of Efficient Semiconductor-based Photocatalysts via Microdroplets: A Review

Semiconductor-based photocatalysis is regarded as an effective approach to harness solar energy to address the critical energy and environmental issues, such as fossil fuel shortage and climate change. The overall efficiency of the semiconductor-based photocatalysts can be further improved by creating nanocomposites with the incorporation of other functional materials, including metals, graphene, and metal-organic frameworks (MOFs). This critical review highlights the recent progress on the rational design of semiconductor-based photocatalysts via microdroplets, where the synthesis can be completed in a fast and controlled manner. Particular emphasis is given to three typical semiconductor-based composites, including semiconductor heterojunctions, crumpled graphene oxide/semiconductor composites, and MOF/semiconductor composites. The rationale behind the nanocomposite design, photocatalytic performance, and fundamental mechanisms are systematically discussed.