Emerging semiconducting materials show considerable promise for application in the development of next‐generation optoelectronic devices. In particular, broadband light detection is crucial in various applications, including multispectral imaging and cognition. Therefore, tuning the physical properties of semiconductors and thereby building an efficient heterojunction are important for achieving a high‐performance photodetection device. In this study, a heavy p‐type colloidal quantum dot (CQD) is synthesized through solution‐based sulfurization. The resulting cubic‐shaped CQD exhibits broadband and strong absorption, which enable its broadband absorption. Further, a multidimensional 0D‐2D heterojunction is developed using p‐type CQD and n‐type tungsten disulfide (WS2). This efficient p‐n junction is operated as a fully self‐powered optical sensor and phototransistor under various light illumination conditions. Under the self‐powered condition, the CQD/WS2 heterojunction device exhibits 440‐ and 200‐fold‐higher responsivity and detectivity, respectively, than pristine WS2.
Ammonia, a key feedstock used in various industries, has been considered a sustainable fuel and energy storage option. However, NH3 production via the conventional Haber–Bosch process is costly, energy‐intensive, and significantly contributing to a massive carbon footprint. An electrochemical synthetic pathway for nitrogen fixation has recently gained considerable attention as NH3 can be produced through a green process without generating harmful pollutants. This review discusses the recent progress and challenges associated with the two relevant electrochemical pathways: direct and indirect nitrogen reduction reactions. The detailed mechanisms of these reactions and highlight the recent efforts to improve the catalytic performances are discussed. Finally, various promising research strategies and remaining tasks are presented to highlight future opportunities in the electrochemical nitrogen reduction reaction.
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