Quantum Dot Assembly for Light-Driven Multielectron Redox Reactions, such as Hydrogen Evolution and CO2 Reduction

Abstract

Light-driven multielectron redox reactions (e.g., hydrogen (H₂ ) evolution, CO₂ reduction) have recently appeared at the front of solar-to-fuel conversion. In this Minireview, we focus on the recent advances in establishing semiconductor quantum dot (QD) assemblies to enhance the efficiencies of these light-driven multielectron reduction reactions. Four models of QD assembly are established to promote the sluggish kinetics of multielectron transfer from QDs to cocatalysts, thus leading to an enhanced activity of solar H₂ evolution or CO₂ reduction. We also forecast the potential applications of QD assemblies in other multielectron redox reactions, such as nitrogen (N₂ ) fixation and oxygen (O₂ ) evolution from H₂ O.

Keywords: CO2 reduction; hydrogen evolution; multielectron redox reactions; photocatalysis; quantum dots.