Copper‐based Materials for Photo and Electrocatalytic Process: Advancing Renewable Energy and Environmental Applications

Abstract

AbstractCu‐based catalysts have emerged as critical components in photo‐ and electrocatalysis, offering sustainable solutions for renewable energy and environmental applications. The variable oxidation states of Cu enable diverse catalytic pathways, and its abundance, low cost, and tunable properties have positioned them at the forefront of catalytic innovation. This review provides a comprehensive overview of Cu‐based catalysts applied for sustainable energy production and environmental remediation. The classification of copper‐based catalysts, including metallic copper, copper oxides, copper sulfides, copper halide perovskites, copper‐based metal‐organic frameworks (MOFs), and covalent organic frameworks (COFs), is discussed, highlighting their structural and functional diversity. Various synthesis methods, such as wet chemical approaches, electrochemical and photochemical routes, sputtering, and thermal decomposition, are presented. The applications of copper‐based catalysts in key sustainable energy and environmental remediation processes are explored, focusing on photo‐ and electrocatalysis. Specifically, CO2 reduction, water splitting, oxygen reduction, nitrogen fixation, pollutant degradation, and organic synthesis are examined. The mechanisms underlying these processes are analyzed, including the factors influencing their efficiency and selectivity. These applications demonstrate their potential for tackling dual global challenges: diversifying the energy matrix and mitigating environmental issues. By bridging fundamental insights, this review underscores Cu‐based catalysts as a cornerstone in advancing sustainable energy technologies.