A study conducted by Takeshi Morikawa et al. was published in the Journal of Photochemistry & Photobiology C: Photochemistry Reviews.
This review systematically summarizes recent advances in hybrid photocatalyst that integrate semiconductors with molecular metal complexes. The article describes design principles, reaction mechanisms, and electron transfer processes of hybrid particulate photocatalyst systems proposed and developed by the authors’ research group. The review also highlights related studies conducted by research groups in Japan and abroad. In addition, the review discusses an artificial photosynthesis system that performs an uphill reaction as light energy storage, developed through a collaboration with the Tokyo University of Science. Using water as an electron donor, this system enables visible-light-driven photocatalytic CO2 reduction and selectively converts CO₂ into a variety of carbon-based products. Based on these achievements, the review discusses future research directions and prospects for further development of the field.
Artificial photosynthesis technologies are expected to contribute to a carbon-neutral society and a sustainable chemical industry. Furthermore, because this research spans multiple disciplines, including physics, chemistry, materials science, energy engineering, and process engineering, it is crucial to developing next-generation renewable energy storage technologies.
Title: Photocatalytic CO2 reduction with a semiconductor/metal complex hybrid system: Toward visible light and water utilization
Authors: Morikawa, T., Suzuki, T. M., Yamaguchi, Y., Kudo, A.
Journal Name: Journal of Photochemistry & Photobiology C: Photochemistry Reviews
Published: January 7, 2026