Surface and Interface Engineering in Photocatalysis

Abstract

Surfaces and interfaces are two key parameters to maneuver the performance of photocatalytic materials, particularly for hybrid structures, in various reaction systems. In this Focus Review, we highlight the recent progress on surface and interface engineering toward designing highly efficient photocatalysts, and elucidate the fundamental principles behind the designs. We first introduce the roles of surfaces and interfaces in different models of charge kinetics—a key process determining the quantum efficiency of photocatalysis—followed by the definitions of surface and interface in basic photocatalytic architectural structures. We then outline the design rules and important parameters for surface and interface engineering, respectively. As an interplay effect, the relationships between surface and interface parameters in photocatalyst design are also presented. We further summarize the synthetic methods for surface and interface control. Finally, we discuss the challenges and opportunities for photocatalysis research in terms of surface and interface engineering.