Recent Advances in Visible-Light-Driven Hydrogen Evolution from Water using Polymer Photocatalysts

Efficient polymer photocatalysts that mimic natural photosynthesis to generate H-2 through the visible-light-promoted splitting of water are ideal systems for the conversion of solar energy into usable fuel with high energy density and in an environmentally friendly manner. In this article, we review recent reports on donor-acceptor-based pi-conjugated polymers as photocatalysts, including conjugated linear polymers, microporous polymers, triazine frameworks, covalent organic frameworks, polymer dots, and other related organic polymers, which show superior photocatalytic activity and robust stability under visible-light irradiation, for hydrogen production. Moreover, their syntheses and material design strategies, photophysical properties, proposed mechanisms, and applications are systematically summarized. Finally, recent research on and challenges related to organic polymer photocatalysts are discussed. This minireview will help readers to more easily understand the recent advances in and future direction of this field.