Recent advances in sustainable nanomaterials for energy conversion and environmental remediation via photocatalysis

Photocatalysis is of particular interest because it can be utilized for reducing air pollution and decreasing greenhouse gas emissions. This review examined the latest advances in layered photocatalytic nanomaterials and single-atom catalysts and discloses the synthesis, structural features, and ways to enhance their catalytic ability. In particular, we describe the peculiarities of catalysis mechanisms in CO2 conversion, pollutant and NOx removal, and nitrogen reduction. The current trends in this field and the potential areas for further research are also discussed in this review. It is important to emphasize that single-atom catalysts possess distinct advantages to substantially improve the efficiency of energy conversion processes. The materials related to the synthesizing and post-processing of layered semiconductor catalysts and single-atom catalysts can be useful for other researchers and stakeholders.