How to Make Fuels and Chemicals with Sunlight: Artificial Photosynthesis

Key advancements in photoelectrode design are discussed, including the stabilization of cuprous oxide (Cu₂O) for CO₂ _reduction, the development of copper-tantalate (Cu₂Ta₄O₁₁) for selective multi-carbon product (C₂⁺) production, and hybrid systems integrating organometal halide perovskites. These innovations demonstrate significant improvements in stability, selectivity, and energy efficiency for photoelectrochemical (PEC) CO₂ _reduction. In addition, the role of organic modifiers in engineering catalyst microenvironments is explored. Tailored structures such as covalent organic frameworks (COFs) and molecular additives are shown to optimize local reactant concentrations and suppress competing reactions, enhancing the production of desired chemicals like ethylene and formic acid. This work outlines a pathway toward scalable, sunlight-driven production of renewable fuels and chemicals by combining