Hybrid Photocathodes for Carbon Dioxide Reduction: Interfaces for Charge Separation and Selective Catalysis
Dora Alicia García Osorio, Gaia Neri, Alexander J. Cowan
Abstract
Abstract Light‐driven carbon dioxide reduction at photocathodes was first reported over 40 years ago, however the efficiency and stability of the state‐of‐the‐art lies behind water splitting photocathodes and photoanodes. Issues have included the low selectivities towards carbon dioxide reduction (versus hydrogen evolution) and short charge separation lifetimes. “Hybrid” photocathodes, where a light absorbing semiconductor is used with a selective molecular electrocatalyst, are now emerging as a promising way to address these issues. Here we provide a review of hybrid photoelectrodes reported for CO 2 reduction. Focusing on the semiconductor/molecular catalyst interface, we evaluate the operating principles and design features of the materials reported to date and propose new directions for the field.