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Advancements in photocatalytic hydrogen peroxide synthesis: Overcoming challenges for a sustainable future

Year: 2025

Type: article

Abstract: Hydrogen peroxide (H 2 O 2 ) is a crucial, eco-friendly oxidizing agent with a wide range of industrial, environmental, and biomedical applications. Traditional production methods, such as the anthraquinone process, face significant challenges in terms of energy consumption and environmental impact. As a sustainable alternative, photocatalytic H 2 O 2 production, driven by solar energy, has emerged as a promising approach. This review discusses the key advancements in photocatalytic H 2 O 2 synthesis, focusing on overcoming challenges such as charge recombination, selectivity for the two-electron oxygen reduction reaction (2e − ORR), and catalyst stability. Recent innovations in photocatalyst design, including high-entropy materials, single-atom catalysts, and covalent organic frameworks (COFs), have significantly enhanced efficiency and stability. Furthermore, novel strategies for optimizing charge separation, light harvesting, and mass transfer are explored. The integration of artificial intelligence and bioinspired systems holds potential for accelerating progress in this field. This review provides a comprehensive overview of current challenges and cutting-edge solutions, offering valuable insights for the development of scalable, decentralized H 2 O 2 production systems that contribute to a more sustainable future.

Source: Chinese Journal of Structural Chemistry

DOI: 10.1016/j.cjsc.2025.100545

Authors: Liyang Qin, Luna Wu, Jinlin Long

Institutions: Chinese Academy of Sciences, Fujian Institute of Research on the Structure of Matter, State Key Laboratory of Structural Chemistry, Fuzhou University

Language: English

Topic: Advanced Photocatalysis Techniques

Subfield: Renewable Energy, Sustainability and the Environment

Field: Energy

Domain: Physical Sciences

SDG: Affordable and clean energy

Open Access status: hybrid

Estimated APC paid: $2,500