hydrogen evolution

water splitting

photocatalytic reduction

heterojunction efficient

photocatalytic production

scheme heterojunction

Materials Today Physics

Photocatalysis provides a promising protocol for tackling the conjuncture of energy and environment in the light of feasible conversion H 2 O and CO 2 to fuels, such as H 2 , CO, CH 4 , CH 3 OH, by utilizing solar energy. Earth-abundant nickel-based cocatalysts, which can effectively promote photocatalytic efficiency by extending light absorption range, boosting charge separation, providing active sites, and lowering reaction barrier, open up alluring vistas in the arenas of solar-to-fuels conversion. In this review, recent advances in nickel-based cocatalysts applied in photocatalytic H 2 production, overall water splitting and CO 2 reduction are summarized. This review highlights the various design strategies of nickel-based cocatalysts, including morphology modulation, interface engineering, and developing new nickel-contained cocatalysts. Besides, the mechanisms of nickel-based cocatalysts for promoting photocatalytic activities are systematically discussed from both theoretical and experimental aspects. Finally, perspectives on the challenges and opportunities for the further development of nickel-based cocatalysts are demonstrated. • Nickle-based cocatalysts for photocatalysis are summarized. • The design strategies of nickel-based cocatalysts are highlighted. • The mechanisms of nickel-based cocatalysts are discussed. • The perspectives on nickel-based cocatalysts are presented.

Nickel-based cocatalysts for photocatalysis: Hydrogen evolution, overall water splitting and CO2 reduction