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Colloidal semiconductor nanocrystals are potential photosensitizers and photocatalysts for solar-fuel-related transformations. The nanocrystal surface dictates charge transfer rates and long-term photocatalyst stability, two longstanding challenges in this area. The surface is a complex hybrid interface that includes supporting ligands as well as the surface atoms of the semiconductor material, all of which can participate in photocatalysis. This mini review presents advances in understanding how these nanocrystal surface components influence nanocrystal photocatalytic applications. In particular, the effects of surface ligands, photoinduced surface reduction and oxidation processes, and surface radical reactions will be emphasized.
Emily Y. Tsui (Wed,) studied this question.