Upconversion (UC) lanthanide nanomaterials have attracted enormous attention in the last two decades thanks to their unique ability to convert low-energy infrared photons into high-energy photons. In this mini-review, we briefly discussed the recent achievements related to the direct utilization of UC optical nanomaterials for photocatalysis and photovoltaic applications. In particular, selected examples of UC-containing devices/nanocomposites with improved performance were covered. In addition, we outlined some challenges and future trends associated with the widespread usage of UC nanomaterials.

中文翻译：

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用于光催化和光伏的上转换光学纳米材料：最新进展和观点

上转换（UC）镧系元素纳米材料由于其将低能红外光子转换成高能光子的独特能力，在过去的二十年中受到了极大的关注。在本微型审查中，我们简要讨论了与将UC光学纳米材料直接用于光催化和光伏应用有关的最新成就。特别地，涵盖了具有改善的性能的含UC的装置/纳米复合材料的选定实例。此外，我们概述了与UC纳米材料的广泛使用相关的一些挑战和未来趋势。