Recent Breakthroughs and Future Potential of Inorganic Nanocomposites in Hydrogen Generation

Abstract

Green hydrogen synthesis has attracted researchers due to energy resource applications. Non-renewable energy sources have been found to be incapable of meeting energy demands. Therefore, the need of the hour is to introduce an alternative to produce an efficient amount of H2. This review has summarized and investigated hetero-catalysts and their hydrogen production potential under different light illuminations. Here, the syntheses of various nanoparticles (NPs) and composite semiconductors have been reviewed, and insights into the enhanced ability of noble-free metal electrocatalysts have been provided. Specific nanomaterials, such as nickel, ruthenium, silver, boron-doped SnO2, AgVO3, cobalt-ferrite, and cobalt, dominate in synthesizing durable electrocatalysts. These exhibit Schottky junctions and enhance catalytic behaviour for hydrogen production. Finally, the challenges of the nanoparticle‘s structural and conductive properties and critical solutions are discussed. This review discusses mechanistic insights, interactions, and kinetics that involve a higher H2 synthesis rate.