Recent progress in TiO2-based photocatalysts for hydrogen evolution reaction: A review

Abstract

TiO2 has gained tremendous attention as a cutting-edge material for application in photocatalysis. The performance of TiO2 as a photocatalyst depends on various parameters including morphology, surface area, and crystallinity. Although TiO2 has shown good catalytic activity in various catalysis systems, the performance of TiO2 as a photocatalyst is generally limited due to its low conductivity and a wide optical bandgap. Numerous different studies have been devoted to overcome these problems, showing significant improvement in photocatalytic performance. In this study, we summarize the recent progress in the utilization of TiO2 for the photocatalytic hydrogen evolution reaction (HER). Strategies for modulating the properties toward the high photocatalytic activity of TiO2 for HER including structural engineering, compositional engineering, and doping are highlighted and discussed. The advantages and limitations of each modification approach are reviewed. Finally, the remaining obstacles and perspective for the development of TiO2 as photocatalysts toward high efficient HER in the near future are also provided. Keywords: TiO2, 2D materials, Composites, Doping, Photocatalysis, HER