Strategic attenuation of carbon footprint: Exploring the exciting potential of ultrathin structured photocatalysts for CO2 reduction†

Reducing CO₂ emission is a challenging and pressing issue that needs to be resolved immediately. Although, there have been reported many approaches to control on CO₂, but most reliable solution is conversion of CO₂ into valuable hydrocarbon products. In order to achieve this goal (CO₂ reduction), researchers have focussed to synthesize ultrathin structured materials having unique catalytic chracteristics. However, our assessment indicated that most of the reports are unclear regarding their claim of catalytic efficiencies. Due to ambiguity in reported protocols, numerous significant concerns have been pointed out by many young researchers. This is the reason, there is huge uncertainty regarding the reported catalytic efficiencies. Current study has explored the recent and progressive research on ultrathin structured photocatalysts for CO₂ reduction. This work highlights the important catalysts that have been excessively used for catalytic conversion of CO₂ into useful products. For example, various kinds of ultrathin photocatalysts like 1D nanotubes, rods, wires and ribbons, 2D plates, nanosheets, and 3D architectures have been evaluated and discussed. Additionally, we have evaluated the important scientific techniques and methodologies that have been generally used to obtain better efficiencies. These approaches include structural engineering, use of dopants, role of vacancies, activity relationships, defects in crystal facets, structural alteration and developments of heterojunctions. All aforementioned approaches have been utilized to enhance CO₂ reduction into its useful substitutes. This review provides a comprehensive overview for the readers working on targeted and ultrathin structured photocatalysts. Moreover, this study evaluates the significant strategies used for CO₂ abatement. On the basis of assessment and evaluation, it has been concluded that current study holds promise to deliver advanced information for the readers and researchers working in similar areas and applications.