Dual-Function Piezo-Photocatalytic Systems for Sustainable Hydrogen Evolution and Environmental Remediation

Hydrogen (H₂) production and environmental cleanup, including pollutant breakdown, nano-plastic removal, and CO₂ reduction, are crucial for achieving environmental sustainability. Piezo-photocatalysis has appeared in an optimistic approach to address environmental pollution and the escalating energy crisis. Although several reviews on H₂ production and environmental cleanup using piezo-catalytic technologies have been recently published, there is no review specifically focused on the literature related to dual-functional piezo-photocatalytic systems. This research aims to fill that gap as the field continues to grow rapidly. This study reviews dual-function piezo-photocatalytic systems, which can be easily fabricated to enhance the effective uncoupling and transfer of photoproduced holes and electrons for H₂ production and environmental cleanup. First, piezoelectric materials, such as metal oxides (e.g., TiO₂, ZnO, BaTiO₃), 2D materials (e.g., MoS₂, MXenes, graphene-based materials), perovskite materials, and composite/heterostructure materials, are introduced. Second, this work also explores various modification methods that enhance piezo-photocatalytic efficiency, highlighting the remarkable properties of dual-function systems designed for sustainable H₂ production and environmental cleanup. Additionally, this work provides insight into the underlying mechanisms of piezo-photocatalytic activity and suggests new pathways toward high-performance piezo-photocatalysts. Finally, this research discusses future directions for piezoelectric materials in environmental applications and sustainable H₂ production.