Metal oxide mesocrystals and mesoporous single crystals: synthesis, properties and applications in solar energy conversion

Abstract Metal oxide mesocrystals (MCs) and mesoporous single crystals (MSCs) exhibit superior carrier transport ability, high specific surface area, shortened photo-carrier diffusion lengths to interfaces and enhanced absorbance of the incident sunlight. These advanced features make metal oxide MCs and MSCs be a promising candidate material in photocatalysis, photoelectrocatalysis, dye sensitized solar cells (DSSCs) and perovskite solar cells (PSCs). Recently, remarkable advances of applying metal oxide MCs and MSCs in these areas have been achieved. Therefore, it is extremely important to deeply understand the influence of the unique properties of metal oxide MCs and MSCs on solar energy conversion systems. Herein, we presented a brief introduction on the synthesis and carrier transfer behavior of metal oxide MCs and MSCs. Then, the rational structure design and modification of metal oxide MCs and MSCs for photocatalysis, photoelectrocatalysis, DSSCs and PSCs are systematically discussed. Finally, the perspectives on extending the application of metal oxide MCs and MSCs are addressed.