Abstract

Converting solar energy directly into chemical energy by means of artificial photosynthesis provides a flexible option for energy storage and transportation. The material’s structure and morphology, wisely tailored via a nanochemistry approach, could lead to desirable photocatalytic performances. The smallest dimension structures, one-dimensional nanostructures which could be utilized for efficient electrons and optical excitations transmit, are expected to play an important role in photocatalytic organic synthesis, a typical example of artificial photosynthesis. In this review, we describe current progresses in photocatalytic organic synthesis research, including photocatalytic selective oxidation of alcohols, nitroaromatic compounds reductions, and reduction of CO₂ to renewable fuels, with centered on profits of one-dimensional morphology. The possible research directions are presented along with typical instances of some current advances in this area, which involves co-catalysts, light-absorbers as well as charge transport units of one-dimensional nanostructures.

Keywords: Artificial photosynthesis, fine chemicals production, one-dimensional, photocatalytic organic synthesis.

Graphical Abstract