Review: Photocatalytic reduction of carbon dioxide

Abstract

Carbon dioxide reforming happens all the time in nature by photosynthesis of plants. It thus provides a great challenge to equal or surpass this photosynthesis in an artificial system. This paper presents a literature review of using semi-conductor to assist photocatalytic reduction of carbon dioxide under UV irradiation. It analyses some key factors influencing the reaction rates which have been studied worldwide in respective areas. Special interest is taken in recommending possible improvements for the heterogeneous photocatalysis involving gas-solid interfaces, particularly in relation to the influencing factors affecting product concentrations and the reduction rate.