Rational construction of interfacial photocatalysts toward outstanding performance in energy and evironmental applications

Abstract

Summary Interfacial photocatalysts with precisely engineered junctions are critical for overcoming the performance limitations of conventional photocatalytic systems, as they enable efficient charge transfer, suppress carrier recombination, and enhance surface redox kinetics. This review first outlines the rational design principles for interfacial photocatalysts and precise interfacial control, highlighting advanced engineering strategies—including asymmetric single-atom doping, construction of a step-scheme built-in electric field, and spatial decoupling of dual cocatalysts. We then decipher the underlying physicochemical mechanisms using operando characterizations and theoretical simulations, transforming the traditional “black-box” catalysis into a visualized six-step cascade of charge transfer and molecular activation. The transformative utility of these interfaces is demonstrated in high-efficiency energy conversion and environmental remediation, with a particular focus on the paradigm shift from passive mineralization of emerging contaminants to proactive “Waste-to-Wealth” upcycling of plastics and biomass. Finally, we discuss challenges and future directions in reactor scale-up, durability, and AI-driven materials discovery.