Solar-Powered Photocatalysis and Photoelectrocatalysis over Atomically Precise Metal Nanoclusters

Abstract

Atomically precise metal nanoclusters (NCs) have garnered enduring interest in account of peculiar atomic stacking mode, discrete energy band structure, and abundant active sites, which are distinct from conventional metal nanocrystals. Nonetheless, research works on metal NCs-based photosystems are still in the infant stage in terms of generic light-induced instability, deficiency of metal NCs with photosensitization effect to trigger photoredox catalysis, and a complicated interfacial charge transport process. Herein, we concisely overview the latest concerted endeavors in constructing metal NCs-based photosystems for heterogeneous photocatalysis and photoelectrochemical water splitting with particular emphasis focusing on elucidating the charge transfer characteristics of metal NCs. Moreover, objective discussion and personal opinions on quintessential works are specifically provided. Future perspectives and challenges of metal NCs-based photosystems are eventually highlighted. We hope this perspective article would inspire ongoing interest in unleashing the emerging potentials of atomically precise metal NCs for solar energy conversion.