Chapter 8: 2D Nanomaterials-based Heterostructures for H₂O Splitting and CO₂ Reduction

The growing global energy demand as a result of population growth and rapid industrialization has jeopardized natural reservoirs and the environment. Photocatalysis is regarded as a sustainable technology capable of meeting future energy demands while minimizing environmental impact. In particular, photocatalytic hydrogen generation from water splitting is critical for producing pure hydrogen fuel at a low cost, while CO₂ reduction is critical for producing green hydrocarbon solar fuels. Two-dimensional (2D) nanomaterials with distinctive structural features show promise as photocatalysts for hydrogen generation and CO₂ reduction processes. In this chapter, we present a comprehensive overview of recent advancements in 2D nanomaterials and their heterostructures, with an emphasis on hybridization, defect engineering, and morphology optimization for photocatalytic hydrogen generation and CO₂ reduction applications. This chapter covers several categories of 2D nanomaterials, including oxides, oxyhalides, chalcogenides, graphene, g-C₃N₄, black phosphorous, MXenes, layered double hydroxides, and other emerging 2D layered materials.