Bio-hybrid photoelectrochemical catalysis for solar fuels and chemicals conversion

Abstract

Bio-hybrid photoelectrochemical (PEC) devices integrate the complementary advantages of both biocatalyst and abiotic components, providing opportunities for efficient catalysis under mild conditions with high selectivity and low over-potential. However, the practical applications of such devices depend on the stability and efficiency of the bio-abiotic interface, where suboptimal charge transfer, biocatalyst fragility, and scalability challenges persist. In this Perspective, we evaluate established strategies for wiring biocatalysts to electrode substrates within bio-hybrid PEC architectures, analyze their catalytic performance, and operational limitations, and underly mechanistic principles. Then, we highlight the integration of whole-cell biocatalysts with high-performance semiconductor scaffolds as a promising design paradigm, offering a scalable platform for sustainable, solar-driven chemical production.

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Identifiers

DOI

10.1038/s41467-025-64931-9

Journal

Nature Communications

Year

2025