The
exploration of support effect and interface effect on a homogeneous–heterogeneous
hybrid CO2 reduction photocatalytic system is deficient.
Herein, we constructed oxides (WO3, Al2O3, SiO2, TiO2, and CuO) supported Co-based
photocatalysts via an incipient wetness impregnation
method for visible-light driven CO2 reduction with the
assistance of a photosensitizer ([Ru(bpy)3]Cl2) and a sacrificial electron donor (triethanolamine) under mild conditions.
Among them, the WO3 supported Co-based photocatalyst (named
1Co/W) exhibited the highest CO generation rate (29.34 μmol
h–1) with 81% selectivity and 0.73% apparent quantum
yield. Moreover, the unit mass activity of surface Co components was
up to 296.35 mmol gCo
–1 h–1. Experimental studies and characterization analyses indicated that
the superior photocatalytic performance of 1Co/W benefited from the
following aspects: (1) the well-matched band structure between 1Co/W
and the photosensitizer for charge transfer and the suitable conduction
band position for CO2 conversion; (2) the tight interface
structure between surface Co active species and WO3 support
accelerating the carrier migration kinetics and providing efficient
cobalt active sites for CO2 adsorption and activation;
and (3) the dispersion and stabilization effect of WO3 on
surface Co active species.