Next-Generation Perovskite-Metal Organic Framework (MOF) Hybrids in Photoelectrochemical Water Splitting: A Path to Green Hydrogen Solutions

Abstract

Green hydrogen production through sustainable and clean methods, such as photoelectrochemical (PEC) water splitting, has garnered significant attention as a potential solution to the twin issues of fossil fuel depletion and excessive greenhouse gas emissions in the energy production. Enabling efficient PEC reactions requires the discovery and utilisation of stable and efficient photoelectrode materials. Perovskite materials, renowned for their exceptional optoelectronic properties, have garnered attention due to their remarkable optoelectronic properties, including tuneable bandgaps, high absorption coefficients, and superior charge transport dynamics. However, their practical use is hindered by inherent stability issues and efficiency bottlenecks. To address these limitations, the integration of perovskites with secondary materials, particularly metal-organic frameworks (MOFs), has emerged as a promising strategy. MOFs, known for their high surface area, tuneable porosity, and catalytic activity, offer a unique opportunity to complement and enhance the performance of perovskites in PEC applications. This review begins by exploring the fundamental properties of perovskites and MOFs, highlighting recent advancements and key challenges in their individual and combined use as photoelectrodes for PEC water splitting. The synergistic interplay within MOF-perovskite hybrids is discussed, focusing on how this interaction improves charge separation while addressing the persistent issues of photocorrosion and operational stability. Finally, this review addresses critical issues that still limit the efficiency of MOF-perovskite photoelectrodes and offers some perspectives on potential solutions. By bridging the unique strengths of perovskites and MOFs, this work underscores the transformative potential of hybrid materials in advancing PEC water splitting toward sustainable and scalable green hydrogen production.