Highly efficient and 100 % selectivity of CO generation via CO₂ Photoreduction over a novel CsBr@CuBr₂ Heterojunction

To address the global challenge posed by excessive carbon dioxide emissions, our research pioneers the transformation of CO₂ into valuable hydrocarbon fuels. Central to this approach is the innovation of photocatalysts, engineered to exhibit exceptional photoresponse characteristics. In this research, the CsBr@CuBr₂ photocatalyst was innovatively synthesized through a straightforward and effective one-pot method. The catalyst displayed remarkable efficacy, achieving a CO₂ photoreduction rate of 201.47 μmol g^-1 within just 4 h. The incorporation of CsBr into CuBr₂ effectively captures excited-state electrons, thereby significantly enhancing charge separation efficiency. Utilizing in situ DRIFTS and DFT theoretical analysis, the experiment reveals the complex process of CO₂ photoreduction to CO. The results of this experiment provide breakthrough insights for the systematic design of metal bromide heterostructures, which possess robust CO₂ adsorption/activation potential and notable stability.