Transition metal chalcogenides and phosphides: Synthesis and Photocatalytic properties

Abstract

Currently, the interest in developing renewable and clean hydrogen energy sources is increasing in both quantity and quality. Hydrogen is considered a potential clean and safe fuel for the environment, which is considered to be a solution that will overcome the current dependence on petroleum-based ones. The generation of hydrogen through inexhaustible resources such as water and solar energy has been receiving more and more attention. Solar-powered water-splitting methods are considered a new approach to produce long-lasting, efficient hydrogen. Numerous studies are focusing on developing photocatalysts for the production of hydrogen from water. Most of the explored and used photocatalysts have high catalytic activity and good stability, low cost for electrochemical reactions in water splitting and fuel cells. In this report, we review selected recent advances for several photocatalysts using transition metal materials dichalcogenides and phosphides. This study will focus on analyzing related issues including fabrication methods and their applications in (photo)electrochemical water splitting.