Engineering TiO2-based nanostructures for enhanced electrocatalytic and photocatalytic redox reactions

Abstract

The rational engineering of TiO₂-based nanostructures plays a pivotal role in enhancing the redox performance of these materials in both electrocatalytic and photocatalytic systems. This review critically explores recent advances in synthetic strategies, morphological control, and compositional tuning of TiO₂-based nanomaterials, emphasizing their role in energy conversion. Particular attention is given to the performance of TiO₂-based nanostructures in the hydrogen evolution reaction (HER), oxygen evolution reaction (OER), oxygen reduction reaction (ORR), and carbon dioxide reduction reaction (CO₂RR). Key parameters such as size, exposed facets, porosity, and surface states are discussed in relation to their impact on charge transport, light absorption, and active site accessibility. This work systematically examines the mechanistic and parametric contributions of TiO₂-based nanocomposites, elucidating how tailored structures govern charge separation, surface reaction kinetics, and intermediate stabilization in redox processes. For the first time, this review consolidates the electrocatalytic and photocatalytic potential of TiO₂-based nanostructures in energy-related redox processes, providing a cohesive framework to steer the development of advanced catalysts. Furthermore, it addresses challenges, advancements, and future potential of these nanocomposites, highlighting scalable synthesis and integration strategies for sustainable energy applications.