Photocatalytic production of hydrogen

The photocatalytic production of hydrogen represents a fascinating way to convert and store solar energy in the form of chemical energy, i.e. as hydrogen, the ideal fuel for the future, which can be produced either by water splitting, or, more efficiently, by photo-reforming of organics in either liquid or gas phase. Starting with a brief historical background, the fundamentals of photocatalytic hydrogen production are outlined, together with the mechanistic aspects of the process. The most recent achievements in the field are also discussed, concerning both the development of innovative materials able to exploit a larger portion of the solar spectrum compared to traditional photocatalytic materials, and the different set-ups and devices which have been developed in recent years.