Graphene-Based Photocatalytic Water Splitting: Synthesis, Efficiency Assessment, and Future Prospects

The pressing demand for clean and sustainable energy sources has driven researchers to seek innovative solutions for efficient hydrogen production. Among these approaches, photocatalytic water splitting has gained prominence, harnessing sunlight to separate water into hydrogen and oxygen. Graphene, an exceptional two-dimensional material, has recently emerged as a focal point in photocatalysis due to its outstanding properties and potential to enhance energy conversion efficiency. This chapter book provides a comprehensive overview of graphene-based photocatalytic water splitting, focusing on cutting-edge research and advancements in the field. It delves into fundamental principles, emphasizing the unique characteristics of graphene that make it an ideal candidate for this application. The book explores various facets of graphene-based photocatalytic water splitting, commencing with synthesis and characterization techniques for tailoring high-quality graphene materials for efficient hydrogen production. It delves into the fundamental mechanisms governing photocatalysis, encompassing light absorption, charge separation, and surface reactions. Additionally, the book spotlights strategies employed to augment the photocatalytic performance of graphene-based materials, including heterostructure formation, surface functionalization, and hybridization with other nanomaterials. The book also addresses the challenges and opportunities tied to large-scale synthesis and integration of graphene-based photocatalysts for practical applications. Furthermore, it examines recent progress in exploring novel graphene-based architectures and composites, such as graphene quantum dots, graphene oxide, and graphene-based nanocomposites, highlighting their role in boosting the efficiency and stability of photocatalytic water-splitting systems. The potential applications of graphene-based photocatalytic water splitting in clean and renewable energy systems are discussed, along with the economic and environmental benefits associated with hydrogen as an alternative fuel. In essence, this chapter book serves as a valuable resource for professionals, researchers, and students across materials science, environmental science, physics, chemistry, and energy fields, offering insights into the latest advancements and future prospects of graphene-based photocatalytic water splitting for sustainable green energy production.