Innovations in Photocatalytic and Photoelectrocatalytic Water Splitting: Pathways to Efficiently Convert Biomass into Renewable Energy and Chemicals

Abstract

This review comprehensively explores the integration of photocatalytic (PC) and photoelectrocatalytic (PEC) technologies for hydrogen production via water splitting in synergy with the efficient conversion of biomass resources. This synergistic strategy significantly boosts hydrogen production rates in both PC and PEC systems and enhances solar energy conversion efficiency. Furthermore, it enables selective conversion of cost‐effective biomass via precise modulation of catalyst structures, paving a novel pathway for green hydrogen generation and the synthesis of high‐value chemicals. Specifically, the manuscript highlights recent progress in the oxidation and coupling reactions of biomass derivatives, such as methanol, ethanol, glycerol, and 5‐hydroxymethylfurfural, in PC/PEC systems. It reveals their potential to enhance hydrogen production efficiency and the synthesis of high‐value organic compounds. Future research should focus on employing in‐situ characterization techniques and theoretical simulations to deeply understand reaction mechanisms, thus advancing the field of biomass conversion through photocatalytic and photoelectrocatalytic methods.