Dual-Function Piezo-Photocatalytic Systems for Sustainable Hydrogen Evolution and Environmental Remediation

Abstract

Hydrogen (H2) production and environmental cleanup, including pollutant breakdown, nano-plastic removal, and CO2 reduction, are crucial for achieving environmental sustainability. Piezo-photocatalysis has appeared in an optimistic approach to address environmental pollution and the escalating energy crisis. Although several reviews on H2 production and environmental cleanup using piezo-catalytic technologies have been recently published, there is no review specifically focused on the literature related to dual-functional piezo-photocatalytic systems. This research aims to fill that gap as the field continues to grow rapidly. This study reviews dual-function piezo-photocatalytic systems, which can be easily fabricated to enhance the effective uncoupling and transfer of photoproduced holes and electrons for H2 production and environmental cleanup. First, piezoelectric materials, such as metal oxides (e.g., TiO2, ZnO, BaTiO3), 2D materials (e.g., MoS2, MXenes, graphene-based materials), perovskite materials, and composite/heterostructure materials, are introduced. Second, this work also explores various modification methods that enhance piezo-photocatalytic efficiency, highlighting the remarkable properties of dual-function systems designed for sustainable H2 production and environmental cleanup. Additionally, this work provides insight into the underlying mechanisms of piezo-photocatalytic activity and suggests new pathways toward high-performance piezo-photocatalysts. Finally, this research discusses future directions for piezoelectric materials in environmental applications and sustainable H2 production.