Abstract

In this minireview, advances in the applications of graphene (GR)-based composite photocatalysts for selective organic synthesis have been summed up systematically. GR, with unique planar structure, excellent transparency, superior electron conductivity, high specific surface area and high chemical stability, is proven to be a promising component to construct effective GR-based composite photocatalysts for organic transformations, including selective oxidation of alcohols, epoxidation of alkenes, hydroxylation of phenol, and reduction of carbon dioxide (CO2). In addition to the well-known role of GR as a photoelectron reservoir, the novel functions of GR as an organic dye-like macromolecular photosensitizer and graphene oxide (GO) itself as a photocatalyst for selective synthesis are also presented.

Keywords: Graphene, Semiconductor, Photocatalysis, Organic transformation, Oxidation, Reduction