Graphene-Based Efficient Photocatalytic Materials for Hydrogen Generation

Abstract

Hydrogen is the most effective and sustainable substitute for fossil fuels. The reactions associated with the generation of hydrogen have been the focus of much research in the past. To date, a myriad of catalysts have been reported to achieve high HER rates. With the combinations of various catalyst, graphene derivatives have been identified as impactful co-catalysts and support for the catalyst. Particularly, the performances of graphene oxide and reduced graphene oxide as a co-catalyst have been discussed in this chapter. Additionally, various combinations of graphene and semiconductors, such as metals sulfides and metal oxides, as well as heteroatoms, have been demonstrated in detail. This chapter focuses on the role of modified graphene sheets in migrating electrons from the conduction band to the reactive species to achieve the higher HER rate. Additionally, few mechanisms and reactions have been discussed to elaborate on the migration of holes and electrons. This migration of electrons and holes are actually facilitated by modified graphene sheets due to their unique structure and properties (Hierarchical Network, Large Specific Surface Area, Diverse Pore Distribution, Great Light Absorption Capacity, and Other Heteroatoms). Various composite of Graphene with Metal Sulfides, Metal Oxides and other Heteroatoms have also been discussed in detail to demonstrate the change in the HER performance with change the metal composition.