Nanomaterial for photocatalytic water splitting

Photocatalytic water splitting represents a crucial process for the sustainable production of hydrogen utilizing solar energy. Hydrogen serves as an excellent, clean, and renewable energy carrier. The method of hydrogen production through photocatalytic water splitting in the presence of nanomaterials is straightforward, cost-effective, and sustainable. In this review, we provide a brief overview of various methods for the photochemical splitting of water aimed at generating renewable hydrogen energy. Additionally, we explore the fundamental principles of water splitting, both naturally through natural and artificial photosynthesis, and through photolytic processes employing different types of nanomaterials. The effects of these materials on water splitting, the rate of hydrogen production, and solar-to-hydrogen efficiency are discussed. Furthermore, we review recent advanced strategies such as cocatalyst implementation, defect and bandgap engineering, and plasmonic enhancement.