Nickel-based cocatalysts for photocatalysis: Hydrogen evolution, overall water splitting and CO2 reduction

Photocatalysis provides a promising protocol for tackling the conjuncture of energy and environment in the light of feasible conversion H2O and CO2 to fuels, such as H-2, CO, CH4, CH3OH, by utilizing solar energy. Earth-abundant nickel-based cocatalysts, which can effectively promote photocatalytic efficiency by extending light absorption range, boosting charge separation, providing active sites, and lowering reaction barrier, open up alluring vistas in the arenas of solar-to-fuels conversion. In this review, recent advances in nickel-based cocatalysts applied in photocatalytic H-2 production, overall water splitting and CO2 reduction are summarized. This review highlights the various design strategies of nickel-based cocatalysts, including morphology modulation, interface engineering, and developing new nickelcontained cocatalysts. Besides, the mechanisms of nickel-based cocatalysts for promoting photocatalytic activities are systematically discussed from both theoretical and experimental aspects. Finally, perspectives on the challenges and opportunities for the further development of nickel-based cocatalysts are demonstrated. (c) 2020 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.