From quantum dots to 3D networks: a conceptual review of carbon nanoarchitectures driving hydrogen evolution and energy generation

Generating clean hydrogen fuel in quantities adequate to replace fossil fuels is an essential milestone in the pursuit of net-zero emissions. The growth of hydrogen production is significantly influenced by improvements in the stability, efficiency, and durability of water-splitting technologies. Nanoscale material platforms, engineered to enhance surface area and address complex surface chemistries, hold considerable promise for accelerating hydrogen generation in electrochemical and catalytic systems, thereby advancing energy storage and conversion. Nonetheless, with the advent of more advanced material architectures, identifying the most efficient designs for water splitting and hydrogen evolution remains a significant challenge. This article explores how size and morphology in carbon-based nanoarchitectures serve as crucial factors in the thoughtful design of materials for these applications. This study investigates the impact of structural dimensionality, ranging from zero-dimensional quantum dots to one-, two-, and three-dimensional frameworks, on catalytic activity and performance in water-splitting and hydrogen-evolution reactions (Scheme 1). We evaluate recent advancements in carbon-based metamaterials and hierarchical nanoarchitectures, focusing on their potential for sustainable hydrogen production and the challenges they pose. In conclusion, we present an overview of the latest advancements and potential prospects in the design of carbon nanoarchitecture, aimed at facilitating significant progress in clean hydrogen technologies.