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Korell L, Lauterbach S, Timm J, Wang L, Mellin M, Kundmann A, Wu Q, Tian C, Marschall R, Hofmann JP, Osterloh FE, Einert M. On the structural evolution of nanoporous optically transparent CuO photocathodes upon calcination for photoelectrochemical applications. NANOSCALE ADVANCES 2024; 6:2875-2891. [PMID: 38817433 PMCID: PMC11134239 DOI: 10.1039/d4na00199k] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/06/2024] [Accepted: 04/11/2024] [Indexed: 06/01/2024]
Abstract
Copper oxides are promising photocathode materials for solar hydrogen production due to their narrow optical band gap energy allowing broad visible light absorption. However, they suffer from severe photocorrosion upon illumination, mainly due to copper reduction. Nanostructuring has been proven to enhance the photoresponse of CuO photocathodes; however, there is a lack of precise structural control on the nanoscale upon sol-gel synthesis and calcination for achieving optically transparent CuO thin film photoabsorbers. In this study, nanoporous and nanocrystalline CuO networks were prepared by a soft-templating and dip-coating method utilizing poly(ethylene oxide)-block-poly(propylene oxide)-block-poly(ethylene oxide) (Pluronic® F-127) as a structure-directing agent, resulting for the first-time in uniformly structured, crack-free, and optically transparent CuO thin films. The photoelectrochemical properties of the nanoporous CuO frameworks were investigated as a function of the calcination temperature and film thickness, revealing important information about the photocurrent, photostability, and photovoltage. Based on surface photovoltage spectroscopy (SPV), the films are p-type and generate up to 60 mV photovoltage at 2.0 eV (0.050 mW cm-2) irradiation for the film annealed at 750 °C. For these high annealing temperatures, the nanocrystalline domains in the thin film structure are more developed, resulting in improved electronic quality. In aqueous electrolytes with or without methyl viologen (as a fast electron acceptor), CuO films show cathodic photocurrents of up to -2.4 mA cm-2 at 0.32 V vs. RHE (air mass (AM) 1.5). However, the photocurrents were found to be entirely due to photocorrosion of the films and decay to near zero over the course of 20 min under AM 1.5 illumination. These fundamental results on the structural and morphological development upon calcination provide a direction and show the necessity for further (surface) treatment of sol-gel derived CuO photocathodes for photoelectrochemical applications. The study demonstrates how to control the size of nanopores starting from mesopore formation at 400 °C to the evolution of macroporous frameworks at 750 °C.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lukas Korell
- Surface Science Laboratory, Department of Materials and Earth Sciences, Technical University of Darmstadt Otto-Berndt-Straße 3 64287 Darmstadt Germany
| | - Stefan Lauterbach
- Institute for Applied Geosciences, Geomaterial Science, Technical University of Darmstadt Schnittspahnstraße 9 64287 Darmstadt Germany
| | - Jana Timm
- Department of Chemistry, University of Bayreuth Universitätsstraße 30 95447 Bayreuth Germany
| | - Li Wang
- Department of Chemistry, University of California One Shields Avenue Davis CA 95616 USA
| | - Maximilian Mellin
- Surface Science Laboratory, Department of Materials and Earth Sciences, Technical University of Darmstadt Otto-Berndt-Straße 3 64287 Darmstadt Germany
| | - Anna Kundmann
- Department of Chemistry, University of California One Shields Avenue Davis CA 95616 USA
| | - Qingyang Wu
- Surface Science Laboratory, Department of Materials and Earth Sciences, Technical University of Darmstadt Otto-Berndt-Straße 3 64287 Darmstadt Germany
| | - Chuanmu Tian
- Surface Science Laboratory, Department of Materials and Earth Sciences, Technical University of Darmstadt Otto-Berndt-Straße 3 64287 Darmstadt Germany
| | - Roland Marschall
- Department of Chemistry, University of Bayreuth Universitätsstraße 30 95447 Bayreuth Germany
| | - Jan P Hofmann
- Surface Science Laboratory, Department of Materials and Earth Sciences, Technical University of Darmstadt Otto-Berndt-Straße 3 64287 Darmstadt Germany
| | - Frank E Osterloh
- Department of Chemistry, University of California One Shields Avenue Davis CA 95616 USA
| | - Marcus Einert
- Surface Science Laboratory, Department of Materials and Earth Sciences, Technical University of Darmstadt Otto-Berndt-Straße 3 64287 Darmstadt Germany
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2
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Fu W, Zhang Y, Zhang X, Yang H, Xie R, Zhang S, Lv Y, Xiong L. Progress in Promising Semiconductor Materials for Efficient Photoelectrocatalytic Hydrogen Production. Molecules 2024; 29:289. [PMID: 38257202 PMCID: PMC10819766 DOI: 10.3390/molecules29020289] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/25/2023] [Revised: 12/17/2023] [Accepted: 01/02/2024] [Indexed: 01/24/2024] Open
Abstract
Photoelectrocatalytic (PEC) water decomposition provides a promising method for converting solar energy into green hydrogen energy. Indeed, significant advances and improvements have been made in various fundamental aspects for cutting-edge applications, such as water splitting and hydrogen production. However, the fairly low PEC efficiency of water decomposition by a semiconductor photoelectrode and photocorrosion seriously restrict the practical application of photoelectrochemistry. In this review, the mechanisms of PEC water decomposition are first introduced to provide a solid understanding of the PEC process and ensure that this review is accessible to a wide range of readers. Afterwards, notable achievements to date are outlined, and unique approaches involving promising semiconductor materials for efficient PEC hydrogen production, including metal oxide, sulfide, and graphite-phase carbon nitride, are described. Finally, four strategies which can effectively improve the hydrogen production rate-morphological control, doping, heterojunction, and surface modification-are discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Weisong Fu
- School of Optoelectronic Engineering, Guangdong Polytechnic Normal University, Guangzhou 510665, China; (W.F.); (Y.Z.); (X.Z.); (R.X.); (S.Z.); (Y.L.)
| | - Yan Zhang
- School of Optoelectronic Engineering, Guangdong Polytechnic Normal University, Guangzhou 510665, China; (W.F.); (Y.Z.); (X.Z.); (R.X.); (S.Z.); (Y.L.)
| | - Xi Zhang
- School of Optoelectronic Engineering, Guangdong Polytechnic Normal University, Guangzhou 510665, China; (W.F.); (Y.Z.); (X.Z.); (R.X.); (S.Z.); (Y.L.)
| | - Hui Yang
- School of Medical Information Engineering, Gannan Medical University, Ganzhou 341004, China
| | - Ruihao Xie
- School of Optoelectronic Engineering, Guangdong Polytechnic Normal University, Guangzhou 510665, China; (W.F.); (Y.Z.); (X.Z.); (R.X.); (S.Z.); (Y.L.)
| | - Shaoan Zhang
- School of Optoelectronic Engineering, Guangdong Polytechnic Normal University, Guangzhou 510665, China; (W.F.); (Y.Z.); (X.Z.); (R.X.); (S.Z.); (Y.L.)
| | - Yang Lv
- School of Optoelectronic Engineering, Guangdong Polytechnic Normal University, Guangzhou 510665, China; (W.F.); (Y.Z.); (X.Z.); (R.X.); (S.Z.); (Y.L.)
| | - Liangbin Xiong
- School of Optoelectronic Engineering, Guangdong Polytechnic Normal University, Guangzhou 510665, China; (W.F.); (Y.Z.); (X.Z.); (R.X.); (S.Z.); (Y.L.)
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Lam NH, Truong NTN, Le N, Ahn KS, Jo Y, Kim CD, Jung JH. Improving the photoelectrochemical water splitting performance of CuO photocathodes using a protective CuBi 2O 4 layer. Sci Rep 2023; 13:5776. [PMID: 37031237 PMCID: PMC10082760 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-023-32804-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/27/2023] [Accepted: 04/03/2023] [Indexed: 04/10/2023] Open
Abstract
A heterojunction photocathode of CuO and CuBi2O4 grown on an FTO substrate (FTO/CuO/CuBi2O4) was synthesized using hydrothermal method followed by spin coating and annealing to overcome the bottlenecks encountered by CuO in photoelectrochemical (PEC) water splitting application. The synthesis methods, morphological, structural properties, and composition of each sample under each synthesis condition are discussed in detail. The photocathode with 15 coating layers annealed at 450 °C exhibited the best PEC performance. Moreover, its current density reached 1.23 mA/cm2 under an applied voltage of - 0.6 V versus Ag/AgCl in a neutral electrolyte. Additionally, it exhibited higher stability than the bare CuO thin film. The bonding of CuBi2O4 on CuO resulted in close contact between the two semiconductors, helping the semiconductors support each other to increase the PEC efficiency of the photocathode. CuO acted as the electron-generating layer, and the CuBi2O4 layer helped minimize photocorrosion as well as transport the carriers to the electrode/electrolyte interface to accomplish the hydrogen evolution reaction.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nguyen Hoang Lam
- School of Chemical Engineering, Yeungnam University, 280 Daehak-ro, Gyeongsan, 38541, Republic of Korea
| | - Nguyen Tam Nguyen Truong
- School of Chemical Engineering, Yeungnam University, 280 Daehak-ro, Gyeongsan, 38541, Republic of Korea.
| | - Nam Le
- School of Chemical Engineering, Yeungnam University, 280 Daehak-ro, Gyeongsan, 38541, Republic of Korea
| | - Kwang-Soon Ahn
- School of Chemical Engineering, Yeungnam University, 280 Daehak-ro, Gyeongsan, 38541, Republic of Korea
| | - Younjung Jo
- Department of Physics, Kyungpook National University, Daegu, 41566, Republic of Korea
| | - Chang-Duk Kim
- Department of Physics, Kyungpook National University, Daegu, 41566, Republic of Korea.
| | - Jae Hak Jung
- School of Chemical Engineering, Yeungnam University, 280 Daehak-ro, Gyeongsan, 38541, Republic of Korea.
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Einert M, Waheed A, Moritz DC, Lauterbach S, Kundmann A, Daemi S, Schlaad H, Osterloh FE, Hofmann JP. Mesoporous CuFe 2 O 4 Photoanodes for Solar Water Oxidation: Impact of Surface Morphology on the Photoelectrochemical Properties. Chemistry 2023; 29:e202300277. [PMID: 36823437 DOI: 10.1002/chem.202300277] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/20/2023] [Revised: 02/22/2023] [Accepted: 02/22/2023] [Indexed: 02/25/2023]
Abstract
Metal oxide-based photoelectrodes for solar water splitting often utilize nanostructures to increase the solid-liquid interface area. This reduces charge transport distances and increases the photocurrent for materials with short minority charge carrier diffusion lengths. While the merits of nanostructuring are well established, the effect of surface order on the photocurrent and carrier recombination has not yet received much attention in the literature. To evaluate the impact of pore ordering on the photoelectrochemical properties, mesoporous CuFe2 O4 (CFO) thin film photoanodes were prepared by dip-coating and soft-templating. Here, the pore order and geometry can be controlled by addition of copolymer surfactants poly(ethylene oxide)-block-poly(propylene oxide)-block-poly(ethylene oxide) (Pluronic® F-127), polyisobutylene-block-poly(ethylene oxide) (PIB-PEO) and poly(ethylene-co-butylene)-block-poly(ethylene oxide) (Kraton liquid™-PEO, KLE). The non-ordered CFO showed the highest photocurrent density of 0.2 mA/cm2 at 1.3 V vs. RHE for sulfite oxidation, but the least photocurrent density for water oxidation. Conversely, the ordered CFO presented the best photoelectrochemical water oxidation performance. These differences can be understood on the basis of the high surface area, which promotes hole transfer to sulfite (a fast hole acceptor), but retards oxidation of water (a slow hole acceptor) due to electron-hole recombination at the defective surface. This interpretation is confirmed by intensity-modulated photocurrent (IMPS) and vibrating Kelvin probe surface photovoltage spectroscopy (VKP-SPS). The lowest surface recombination rate was observed for the ordered KLE-based mesoporous CFO, which retains spherical pore shapes at the surface resulting in fewer surface defects. Overall, this work shows that the photoelectrochemical energy conversion efficiency of copper ferrite thin films is not just controlled by the surface area, but also by surface order.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marcus Einert
- Department of Materials and Earth Sciences, Surface Science Laboratory, Technical University of Darmstadt, Otto-Bernd-Strasse 3, 63287, Darmstadt, Germany
| | - Arslan Waheed
- Department of Materials and Earth Sciences, Surface Science Laboratory, Technical University of Darmstadt, Otto-Bernd-Strasse 3, 63287, Darmstadt, Germany
| | - Dominik C Moritz
- Department of Materials and Earth Sciences, Surface Science Laboratory, Technical University of Darmstadt, Otto-Bernd-Strasse 3, 63287, Darmstadt, Germany
| | - Stefan Lauterbach
- Institute for Applied Geosciences, Geomaterial Science, Technical University of Darmstadt, Schnittspahnstrasse 9, 64287, Darmstadt, Germany
| | - Anna Kundmann
- Department of Chemistry, University of California, One Shields Avenue, Davis, CA, 95616, USA
| | - Sahar Daemi
- Department of Chemistry, University of California, One Shields Avenue, Davis, CA, 95616, USA
| | - Helmut Schlaad
- Institute of Chemistry, University of Potsdam, Karl-Liebknecht-Strasse 24-25, 14476, Potsdam, Germany
| | - Frank E Osterloh
- Department of Chemistry, University of California, One Shields Avenue, Davis, CA, 95616, USA
| | - Jan P Hofmann
- Department of Materials and Earth Sciences, Surface Science Laboratory, Technical University of Darmstadt, Otto-Bernd-Strasse 3, 63287, Darmstadt, Germany
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Moon S, Park J, Lee H, Yang JW, Yun J, Park YS, Lee J, Im H, Jang HW, Yang W, Moon J. Bi 2 S 3 -Cu 3 BiS 3 Mixed Phase Interlayer for High-Performance Cu 3 BiS 3 -Photocathode for 2.33% Unassisted Solar Water Splitting Efficiency. ADVANCED SCIENCE (WEINHEIM, BADEN-WURTTEMBERG, GERMANY) 2023; 10:e2206286. [PMID: 36646498 PMCID: PMC9951361 DOI: 10.1002/advs.202206286] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/27/2022] [Revised: 12/20/2022] [Indexed: 06/17/2023]
Abstract
To realize practical solar hydrogen production, a low-cost photocathode with high photocurrent density and onset potential should be developed. Herein, an efficient and stable overall photoelectrochemical tandem cell is developed with a Cu3 BiS3 -based photocathode. By exploiting the crystallographic similarities between Bi2 S3 and Cu3 BiS3 , a one-step solution process with two sulfur sources is used to prepare the Bi2 S3 -Cu3 BiS3 blended interlayer. The elongated Bi2 S3 -Cu3 BiS3 mixed-phase 1D nanorods atop a planar Cu3 BiS3 film enable a high photocurrent density of 7.8 mA cm-2 at 0 V versus the reversible hydrogen electrode, with an onset potential of 0.9 VRHE . The increased performance over the single-phase Cu3 BiS3 thin-film photocathode is attributed to the enhanced light scattering and charge collection through the unique 1D nanostructure, improved electrical conductivity, and better band alignment with the n-type CdS layer. A solar-to-hydrogen efficiency of 2.33% is achieved under unassisted conditions with a state-of-the-art Mo:BiVO4 photoanode, with excellent stability exceeding 21 h.
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Affiliation(s)
- Subin Moon
- Department of Materials Science and EngineeringYonsei UniversitySeoul03722Republic of Korea
| | - Jaemin Park
- Department of Materials Science and EngineeringYonsei UniversitySeoul03722Republic of Korea
| | - Hyungsoo Lee
- Department of Materials Science and EngineeringYonsei UniversitySeoul03722Republic of Korea
| | - Jin Wook Yang
- Department of Materials Science and EngineeringResearch Institute of Advanced MaterialsSeoul National UniversitySeoul08826Republic of Korea
| | - Juwon Yun
- Department of Materials Science and EngineeringYonsei UniversitySeoul03722Republic of Korea
| | - Young Sun Park
- Department of Materials Science and EngineeringYonsei UniversitySeoul03722Republic of Korea
| | - Jeongyoub Lee
- Department of Materials Science and EngineeringYonsei UniversitySeoul03722Republic of Korea
| | - Hayoung Im
- Department of Materials Science and EngineeringYonsei UniversitySeoul03722Republic of Korea
| | - Ho Won Jang
- Department of Materials Science and EngineeringResearch Institute of Advanced MaterialsSeoul National UniversitySeoul08826Republic of Korea
| | - Wooseok Yang
- School of Chemical EngineeringSungkyunkwan UniversitySuwon16419Republic of Korea
- SKKU Institute of Energy Science and Technology (SIEST)Sungkyunkwan UniversitySuwon16419Republic of Korea
| | - Jooho Moon
- Department of Materials Science and EngineeringYonsei UniversitySeoul03722Republic of Korea
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6
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Xin C, Cheng Y, Wang J, Sun Q, Liu E, Hu X, Miao H. Hole Storage Interfacial Regulation of Sb 2Se 3 Photocathode with Significantly Enhanced Photoelectrochemical Performance. LANGMUIR : THE ACS JOURNAL OF SURFACES AND COLLOIDS 2023; 39:627-637. [PMID: 36575821 DOI: 10.1021/acs.langmuir.2c02999] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/17/2023]
Abstract
Although interfacial engineering materials for antimony selenide (Sb2Se3) photocathodes have been intensively studied, most of the previous research has focused on the development of photogenerated electron transfer promoters. In this work, Sb2Se3 photocathodes are innovatively modified by using ferrihydrite (Fh), which has been widely used as a hole storage layer in photoanodes. After modifying Fh, the photocurrent density of the Sb2Se3 photocathode was increased from -0.27 to -1.6 mA cm-2 at 0 VRHE with the onset potential positive shift about 150 mV, and an impressive injection efficiency of 83.84% was achieved. The major contribution of Fh to the photoelectrochemical (PEC) performance enhancement was demonstrated by various characterization studies. The results show that the enhancement performance of PEC is largely attributed to the capture of back-migrating holes by Fh, the reduction of interfacial charge transfer resistance, and the significant increase in electrochemical active surface area (ECSA). This work presents new insights into the application of hole storage layers in Sb2Se3-based photocathodes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chang Xin
- School of Physics, Northwest University, Xi'an710069, P.R. China
| | - Yufei Cheng
- School of Physics, Northwest University, Xi'an710069, P.R. China
| | - Jiawei Wang
- Instrumental Analysis Center, Xi'an Jiaotong University, Xi'an710049, P.R. China
| | - Qian Sun
- School of Physics, Northwest University, Xi'an710069, P.R. China
| | - Enzhou Liu
- School of Chemical Engineering, Northwest University, Xi'an710069, P.R. China
| | - Xiaoyun Hu
- School of Physics, Northwest University, Xi'an710069, P.R. China
| | - Hui Miao
- School of Physics, Northwest University, Xi'an710069, P.R. China
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Karaca AE, Dincer I. Design and experimental investigation of a new photoelectrochemical reactor for green hydrogen production. Chem Eng Sci 2023. [DOI: 10.1016/j.ces.2022.118181] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
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8
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Zeb W, Altaf A, Aamir M, Baig N, Baig I, Nafady A, Sharif M, Sher M, Sohail M. Enhanced photoelectrochemical performance of P-doped g‑C3N4/Zn0.5Cd0.5S heterojunction photocathode for water splitting. JOURNAL OF SAUDI CHEMICAL SOCIETY 2022. [DOI: 10.1016/j.jscs.2022.101542] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/31/2022]
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9
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Karaca AE, Dincer I. New Photoelectrochemical Reactor for Hydrogen Generation: Experimental Investigation. Ind Eng Chem Res 2022. [DOI: 10.1021/acs.iecr.2c01855] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Ali Erdogan Karaca
- Clean Energy Research Laboratory, Faculty of Engineering and Applied Science, Ontario Tech. University, 2000 Simcoe Street North, Oshawa L1H 7K4, Ontario, Canada
| | - Ibrahim Dincer
- Clean Energy Research Laboratory, Faculty of Engineering and Applied Science, Ontario Tech. University, 2000 Simcoe Street North, Oshawa L1H 7K4, Ontario, Canada
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10
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McKeown Wessler GC, Wang T, Blum V, Mitzi DB. Cubic Crystal Structure Formation and Optical Properties within the Ag-B II-M IV-X (B II = Sr, Pb; M IV = Si, Ge, Sn; X = S, Se) Family of Semiconductors. Inorg Chem 2022; 61:2929-2944. [PMID: 35107292 DOI: 10.1021/acs.inorgchem.1c03805] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Abstract
Quaternary chalcogenide semiconductors are promising materials for energy conversion and nonlinear optical applications, with properties tunable primarily by varying the elemental composition and crystal structure. Here, we first analyze the connections among several cubic crystal structure types, as well as the orthorhombic Ag2PbGeS4-type structure, reported for select members within the Ag-BII-MIV-X (BII = Sr, Pb; MIV = Si, Ge, Sn; X = S, Se) compositional space. Focusing on the Ag-Pb-Si-S and Ag-Sr-Sn-S systems, we show that one structure type, with the formulas Ag2Pb3Si2S8 and Ag2Sr3Sn2S8, is favored. We have prepared powder and single-crystal samples of Ag2Pb3Si2S8 and Ag2Sr3Sn2S8, showing that each takes on the noncentrosymmetric cubic space group I4̅3d and is isostructural to the previously reported compound Ag2Sr3Ge2Se8. Through hybrid density functional theory calculations, these cubic compounds are demonstrated to be (quasi-)direct band gap semiconductors with high densities of states at the band maxima. The band-gap energies are measured by reflectance spectroscopy as 1.95(3) and 2.66(4) eV for Ag2Pb3Si2S8 and Ag2Sr3Sn2S8, respectively. We further measure the optical properties and show the electronic band structures of three other isostructural AI-BII-MIV-X-type materials, i.e., Ag2Sr3Si2S8, Ag2Sr3Ge2S8, and Ag2Sr3Ge2Se8, showing that the band gaps can be predictably tuned by element substitution. Detailed visual analyses of the different structures and of their relationships with other members of the Ag-BII-MIV-X compositional family provide a basis for a broader understanding of the structure formation and optoelectronic properties within the quaternary chalcogenide semiconductor family.
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Deng HM, Xiao MJ, Chai YQ, Yuan R, Yuan YL. P3HT-PbS nanocomposites with mimicking enzyme as bi-enhancer for ultrasensitive photocathodic biosensor. Biosens Bioelectron 2022; 197:113806. [PMID: 34808591 DOI: 10.1016/j.bios.2021.113806] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/09/2021] [Revised: 11/12/2021] [Accepted: 11/13/2021] [Indexed: 11/02/2022]
Abstract
Photocathodic biosensor has great capability in anti-interference from reductive substances, however, the low signal intensity of photoactive species with inferior detection sensitivity restricts its wide application. In this work, the P3HT-PbS nanocomposites were synthesized as signal tags, by integrating with target-trigger generated hemin/G-quadruplex nanotail as bi-enhancer to significantly apmplify the photocurrent, an ultrasensitive photocathodic biosensor was proposed for detection of β2-microglobulin (β2-MG). Impressively, P3HT with cathode signal is an attractive polymer consisted of substantial thiophene groups with high absorption coefficient and mobility of photo-generated holes, which could anchor with the PbS dots as sensitizer, providing a high charge mobility and strong photosensitivity. More importantly, target-trigger generated hemin/G-quadruplexes could accept the electron from illuminated photoactive species through the conversion of Fe(III)/Fe(II) in hemin, effectively reducing charge recombination rate as well as accelerating the generation of electron acceptor O2 in the assistant of H2O2. Moreover, hemin/G-quadruplexes inherited the HRP mimicking catalytic capability that further improved the produce of plentiful O2. As a result, PEC cathode signal was significantly enhanced for sensitive analysis of β2-MG protein with a good detection range of 0.1 pg/mL to 100 ng/mL. It would provide a path for establishing PEC platform with excellent anti-interference ability and extend the application of photoelectrochemical (PEC) biosensor in bioanalysis and early disease diagnosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Han-Mei Deng
- Key Laboratory of Luminescence Analysis and Molecular Sensing (Southwest University), Ministry of Education, College of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Southwest University, Chongqing, 400715, PR China.
| | - Ming-Jun Xiao
- Key Laboratory of Luminescence Analysis and Molecular Sensing (Southwest University), Ministry of Education, College of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Southwest University, Chongqing, 400715, PR China
| | - Ya-Qin Chai
- Key Laboratory of Luminescence Analysis and Molecular Sensing (Southwest University), Ministry of Education, College of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Southwest University, Chongqing, 400715, PR China
| | - Ruo Yuan
- Key Laboratory of Luminescence Analysis and Molecular Sensing (Southwest University), Ministry of Education, College of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Southwest University, Chongqing, 400715, PR China
| | - Ya-Li Yuan
- Key Laboratory of Luminescence Analysis and Molecular Sensing (Southwest University), Ministry of Education, College of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Southwest University, Chongqing, 400715, PR China.
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12
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Wang Z, Zhu H, Tu W, Zhu X, Yao Y, Zhou Y, Zou Z. Host/Guest Nanostructured Photoanodes Integrated with Targeted Enhancement Strategies for Photoelectrochemical Water Splitting. ADVANCED SCIENCE (WEINHEIM, BADEN-WURTTEMBERG, GERMANY) 2022; 9:e2103744. [PMID: 34738739 PMCID: PMC8805576 DOI: 10.1002/advs.202103744] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/26/2021] [Revised: 10/05/2021] [Indexed: 06/13/2023]
Abstract
Photoelectrochemical (PEC) hydrogen production from water splitting is a green technology that can solve the environmental and energy problems through converting solar energy into renewable hydrogen fuel. The construction of host/guest architecture in semiconductor photoanodes has proven to be an effective strategy to improve solar-to-fuel conversion efficiency dramatically. In host/guest photoanodes, the absorber layer is deposited onto a high-surface-area electron collector, resulting in a significant enhancements in light-harvesting as well as charge collection and separation efficiency. The present review aims to summarize and highlight recent state-of-the-art progresses in the architecture designing of host/guest photoanodes with integrated enhancement strategies, including i) light trapping effect; ii) optimization of conductive host scaffolds; iii) hierarchical structure engineering. The challenges and prospects for the future development of host/guest nanostructured photoanodes are also presented.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zhiwei Wang
- School of Science and EngineeringThe Chinese University of Hong KongShenzhenGuangdong518172P. R. China
- Hefei National Laboratory for Physical Sciences at the MicroscaleSchool of Chemistry and Materials ScienceUniversity of Science and Technology of ChinaHefeiAnhui230026P. R. China
| | - Heng Zhu
- School of Science and EngineeringThe Chinese University of Hong KongShenzhenGuangdong518172P. R. China
| | - Wenguang Tu
- School of Science and EngineeringThe Chinese University of Hong KongShenzhenGuangdong518172P. R. China
| | - Xi Zhu
- School of Science and EngineeringThe Chinese University of Hong KongShenzhenGuangdong518172P. R. China
| | - Yingfang Yao
- School of Science and EngineeringThe Chinese University of Hong KongShenzhenGuangdong518172P. R. China
- College of Engineering and Applied SciencesNanjing UniversityNanjingJiangsu210093P. R. China
| | - Yong Zhou
- School of Science and EngineeringThe Chinese University of Hong KongShenzhenGuangdong518172P. R. China
- Jiangsu Key Laboratory for Nano TechnologyNational Laboratory of Solid State MicrostructuresCollaborative Innovation Center of Advanced MicrostructuresSchool of PhysicsNanjing UniversityNanjingJiangsu210093P. R. China
| | - Zhigang Zou
- School of Science and EngineeringThe Chinese University of Hong KongShenzhenGuangdong518172P. R. China
- Jiangsu Key Laboratory for Nano TechnologyNational Laboratory of Solid State MicrostructuresCollaborative Innovation Center of Advanced MicrostructuresSchool of PhysicsNanjing UniversityNanjingJiangsu210093P. R. China
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13
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Pan A, Qinghui Z, Zhuang Y, Jiaxing W, Jiaying Z, Yajun W, Yuming L, Guiyuan J. Research Progress of Solar Hydrogen Production Technology under Double Carbon Target. ACTA CHIMICA SINICA 2022. [DOI: 10.6023/a22080362] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/15/2023]
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14
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Hadke S, Huang M, Chen C, Tay YF, Chen S, Tang J, Wong L. Emerging Chalcogenide Thin Films for Solar Energy Harvesting Devices. Chem Rev 2021; 122:10170-10265. [PMID: 34878268 DOI: 10.1021/acs.chemrev.1c00301] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Abstract
Chalcogenide semiconductors offer excellent optoelectronic properties for their use in solar cells, exemplified by the commercialization of Cu(In,Ga)Se2- and CdTe-based photovoltaic technologies. Recently, several other chalcogenides have emerged as promising photoabsorbers for energy harvesting through the conversion of solar energy to electricity and fuels. The goal of this review is to summarize the development of emerging binary (Sb2X3, GeX, SnX), ternary (Cu2SnX3, Cu2GeX3, CuSbX2, AgBiX2), and quaternary (Cu2ZnSnX4, Ag2ZnSnX4, Cu2CdSnX4, Cu2ZnGeX4, Cu2BaSnX4) chalcogenides (X denotes S/Se), focusing especially on the comparative analysis of their optoelectronic performance metrics, electronic band structure, and point defect characteristics. The performance limiting factors of these photoabsorbers are discussed, together with suggestions for further improvement. Several relatively unexplored classes of chalcogenide compounds (such as chalcogenide perovskites, bichalcogenides, etc.) are highlighted, based on promising early reports on their optoelectronic properties. Finally, pathways for practical applications of emerging chalcogenides in solar energy harvesting are discussed against the backdrop of a market dominated by Si-based solar cells.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shreyash Hadke
- School of Materials Science and Engineering, Nanyang Technological University, Singapore 639798, Singapore.,Energy Research Institute @ NTU (ERI@N), Interdisciplinary Graduate Programme, Nanyang Technological University, Singapore 637553, Singapore
| | - Menglin Huang
- Key Laboratory for Computational Physical Sciences (MOE), Key State Key Laboratory of ASIC and System and School of Microelectronics, Fudan University, Shanghai 200433, China
| | - Chao Chen
- School of Optical and Electronic Information, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, Hubei 430074, China.,Wuhan National Laboratory for Optoelectronics, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, Hubei 430074, China
| | - Ying Fan Tay
- School of Materials Science and Engineering, Nanyang Technological University, Singapore 639798, Singapore.,Institute of Materials Research and Engineering (IMRE), Agency of Science, Technology and Research (A*STAR), 2 Fusionopolis Way, Singapore 138634, Singapore
| | - Shiyou Chen
- Key Laboratory for Computational Physical Sciences (MOE), Key State Key Laboratory of ASIC and System and School of Microelectronics, Fudan University, Shanghai 200433, China
| | - Jiang Tang
- School of Optical and Electronic Information, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, Hubei 430074, China.,Wuhan National Laboratory for Optoelectronics, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, Hubei 430074, China
| | - Lydia Wong
- School of Materials Science and Engineering, Nanyang Technological University, Singapore 639798, Singapore.,Singapore-HUJ Alliance for Research and Enterprise (SHARE), Nanomaterials for Energy and Energy-Water Nexus (NEW), Campus for Research Excellence and Technological Enterprise (CREATE), Singapore 138602, Singapore
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15
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PEC water splitting using mats of calcined TiO2 rutile nanorods photosensitized by a thin layer of Ni-benzene dicarboxylic acid MOF. Electrochim Acta 2021. [DOI: 10.1016/j.electacta.2021.139014] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/24/2023]
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16
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Shoute LCT, Alam KM, Vahidzadeh E, Manuel AP, Zeng S, Kumar P, Kar P, Shankar K. Effect of morphology on the photoelectrochemical performance of nanostructured Cu 2O photocathodes. NANOTECHNOLOGY 2021; 32:374001. [PMID: 32619996 DOI: 10.1088/1361-6528/aba2a3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/06/2020] [Accepted: 07/03/2020] [Indexed: 06/11/2023]
Abstract
Cu2O is a promising earth-abundant semiconductor photocathode for sunlight-driven water splitting. Characterization results are presented to show how the photocurrent density (Jph), onset potential (Eonset), band edges, carrier density (NA), and interfacial charge transfer resistance (Rct) are affected by the morphology and method used to deposit Cu2O on a copper foil. Mesoscopic and planar morphologies exhibit large differences in the values ofNAandRct. However, these differences are not observed to translate to other photocatalytic properties of Cu2O. Mesoscopic and planar morphologies exhibit similar bandgap (e.g.) and flat band potential (Efb) values of 1.93 ± 0.04 eV and 0.48 ± 0.06 eV respectively.Eonsetof 0.48 ± 0.04 eV obtained for these systems is close to theEfbindicating negligible water reduction overpotential. Electrochemically deposited planar Cu2O provides the highest photocurrent density of 5.0 mA cm-2at 0 V vs reversible hydrogen electrode (RHE) of all the morphologies studied. The photocurrent densities observed in this study are among the highest reported values for bare Cu2O photocathodes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lian C T Shoute
- Department of Electrical and Computer Engineering, University of Alberta, 9211 - 116 St, Edmonton, Alberta T6G 1H9, Canada
| | - Kazi M Alam
- Department of Electrical and Computer Engineering, University of Alberta, 9211 - 116 St, Edmonton, Alberta T6G 1H9, Canada
| | - Ehsan Vahidzadeh
- Department of Electrical and Computer Engineering, University of Alberta, 9211 - 116 St, Edmonton, Alberta T6G 1H9, Canada
| | - Ajay P Manuel
- Department of Electrical and Computer Engineering, University of Alberta, 9211 - 116 St, Edmonton, Alberta T6G 1H9, Canada
| | - Sheng Zeng
- Department of Electrical and Computer Engineering, University of Alberta, 9211 - 116 St, Edmonton, Alberta T6G 1H9, Canada
| | - Pawan Kumar
- Department of Electrical and Computer Engineering, University of Alberta, 9211 - 116 St, Edmonton, Alberta T6G 1H9, Canada
| | - Piyush Kar
- Department of Electrical and Computer Engineering, University of Alberta, 9211 - 116 St, Edmonton, Alberta T6G 1H9, Canada
| | - Karthik Shankar
- Department of Electrical and Computer Engineering, University of Alberta, 9211 - 116 St, Edmonton, Alberta T6G 1H9, Canada
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17
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Quiñonero J, Pastor FJ, Orts JM, Gómez R. Photoelectrochemical Behavior and Computational Insights for Pristine and Doped NdFeO 3 Thin-Film Photocathodes. ACS APPLIED MATERIALS & INTERFACES 2021; 13:14150-14159. [PMID: 33728897 PMCID: PMC8485327 DOI: 10.1021/acsami.0c21792] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/08/2020] [Accepted: 03/05/2021] [Indexed: 06/12/2023]
Abstract
Among the different strategies that are being developed to solve the current energy challenge, harvesting energy directly from sunlight through a tandem photoelectrochemical cell (water splitting) is most attractive. Its implementation requires the development of stable and efficient photocathodes, NdFeO3 being a suitable candidate among ternary oxides. In this study, transparent NdFeO3 thin-film photocathodes have been successfully prepared by a citric acid-based sol-gel procedure, followed by thermal treatment in air at 640 °C. These electrodes show photocurrents for both the hydrogen evolution and oxygen reduction reactions. Doping with Mg2+ and Zn2+ has been observed to significantly enhance the photoelectrocatalytic performance of NdFeO3 toward oxygen reduction. Magnesium is slightly more efficient as a dopant than Zn, leading to a multiplication of the photocurrent by a factor of 4-5 for a doping level of 5 at % (with respect to iron atoms). This same trend is observed for hydrogen evolution. The beneficial effect of doping is primarily attributed to an increase in the density and a change in the nature of the majority charge carriers. DFT calculations help to rationalize the behavior of NdFeO3 by pointing to the importance of nanostructuring and doping. All in all, NdFeO3 has the potential to be used as a photocathode in photoelectrochemical applications, although efforts should be directed to limit surface recombination.
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Affiliation(s)
- Javier Quiñonero
- Departament
de Química Física, Institut Universitari d’Electroquímica, Universitat d’Alacant, Apartat 99, E-03080 Alicante, Spain
| | - Francisco J. Pastor
- Departament
de Química Física, Institut Universitari d’Electroquímica, Universitat d’Alacant, Apartat 99, E-03080 Alicante, Spain
| | - José M. Orts
- Departament
de Química Física, Institut Universitari d’Electroquímica, Universitat d’Alacant, Apartat 99, E-03080 Alicante, Spain
| | - Roberto Gómez
- Departament
de Química Física, Institut Universitari d’Electroquímica, Universitat d’Alacant, Apartat 99, E-03080 Alicante, Spain
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18
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Jiao Y, Yan H, Wang R, Wang X, Zhang X, Wu A, Tian C, Jiang B, Fu H. Porous Plate-like MoP Assembly as an Efficient pH-Universal Hydrogen Evolution Electrocatalyst. ACS APPLIED MATERIALS & INTERFACES 2020; 12:49596-49606. [PMID: 33089984 DOI: 10.1021/acsami.0c13533] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/11/2023]
Abstract
Molybdenum phosphide is one of the most potential electrocatalysts for the hydrogen evolution reaction (HER), whereas it is still challenging to achieve an efficient molybdenum phosphide-based catalyst that performs well over a wide pH range. Herein, a porous nanoplate composed of small MoP flakes confined in thin N, P, S-triple-doped carbon (MoP@NPSC) was prepared by the assembly of phosphomolybdic acid (H3PMo12O40·nH2O, {PMo12}) and egg white, followed by phosphorization. Given its small size (ca. 1 nm) in favor of deriving small particles and the oxygen-rich surface with strong coordination ability, the {PMo12} cluster was selected to combine with egg white to obtain a lamellar hybrid precursor via a hydrogen bond. Through controllable phosphating, a nanoplate organized by interconnected MoP particles was generated, accompanied by the in situ formation of the N, P, S-doped carbon thin layer and pores from the pyrolysis of egg white. The plentiful pores, thin carbon coating, and multielement doping bring about promoted electrolyte/bubble diffusion, enhanced conductivity and stability, and lowered adsorption energy of hydrogen/hydroxyl, respectively. All of the above merits endow MoP@NPSC with prominent activity with low overpotentials of 50, 76, and 71 mV at 10 mA cm-2 toward the HER in alkaline, neutral, and acid media, respectively, and nearly no attenuation after 40 h of testing. Especially, compared with commercial Pt/C, MoP@NPSC exhibits similar low onset potential and even better at large current density in 1 M KOH. The electrolyzer equipped with the MoP@NPSC cathode and the NiFe-LDH anode requires only 1.52 V to deliver 10 mA cm-2 and can be powered by a solar cell (1.524 V) charged by sunlight.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yanqing Jiao
- Key Laboratory of Functional Inorganic Material Chemistry, Ministry of Education of China, Heilongjiang University, Harbin 150080, China
| | - Haijing Yan
- Key Laboratory of Functional Inorganic Material Chemistry, Ministry of Education of China, Heilongjiang University, Harbin 150080, China
| | - Ruihong Wang
- Key Laboratory of Functional Inorganic Material Chemistry, Ministry of Education of China, Heilongjiang University, Harbin 150080, China
| | - Xiuwen Wang
- Key Laboratory of Functional Inorganic Material Chemistry, Ministry of Education of China, Heilongjiang University, Harbin 150080, China
| | - Xiaomeng Zhang
- Key Laboratory of Functional Inorganic Material Chemistry, Ministry of Education of China, Heilongjiang University, Harbin 150080, China
| | - Aiping Wu
- Key Laboratory of Functional Inorganic Material Chemistry, Ministry of Education of China, Heilongjiang University, Harbin 150080, China
| | - Chungui Tian
- Key Laboratory of Functional Inorganic Material Chemistry, Ministry of Education of China, Heilongjiang University, Harbin 150080, China
| | - Baojiang Jiang
- Key Laboratory of Functional Inorganic Material Chemistry, Ministry of Education of China, Heilongjiang University, Harbin 150080, China
| | - Honggang Fu
- Key Laboratory of Functional Inorganic Material Chemistry, Ministry of Education of China, Heilongjiang University, Harbin 150080, China
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19
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Zhao RD, Zhang YM, Liu QL, Zhao ZY. Effects of the Preparation Process on the Photocatalytic Performance of Delafossite CuCrO2. Inorg Chem 2020; 59:16679-16689. [DOI: 10.1021/acs.inorgchem.0c02678] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Run-Dong Zhao
- Faculty of Materials Science and Engineering, Kunming University of Science and Technology, Kunming 650093, People’s Republic of China
| | - Yi-Man Zhang
- Faculty of Materials Science and Engineering, Kunming University of Science and Technology, Kunming 650093, People’s Republic of China
| | - Qing-Lu Liu
- Faculty of Materials Science and Engineering, Kunming University of Science and Technology, Kunming 650093, People’s Republic of China
| | - Zong-Yan Zhao
- Faculty of Materials Science and Engineering, Kunming University of Science and Technology, Kunming 650093, People’s Republic of China
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20
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Oh S, Kang H, Joo W, Joo Y. Photoelectrochemical CO
2
Reduction via Cu
2
O/CuFeO
2
Hierarchical nanorods photocatalyst. ChemCatChem 2020. [DOI: 10.1002/cctc.202000775] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/09/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Sang‐Ho Oh
- Department of Materials Science & Engineering Seoul National University 1 Gwanak-ro, Gwanak-gu 151-744 Seoul Republic of Korea
| | - Ho‐Young Kang
- Department of Materials Science & Engineering Seoul National University 1 Gwanak-ro, Gwanak-gu 151-744 Seoul Republic of Korea
| | - Won‐Hyo Joo
- Department of Materials Science & Engineering Seoul National University 1 Gwanak-ro, Gwanak-gu 151-744 Seoul Republic of Korea
| | - Young‐Chang Joo
- Department of Materials Science & Engineering Seoul National University 1 Gwanak-ro, Gwanak-gu 151-744 Seoul Republic of Korea
- Research Institute of Advanced Materials Seoul National University 1 Gwanak-ro, Gwanak-gu 151-742 Seoul Republic of Korea
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21
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Li Z, Zhang Q, Chen X, Yang F, Wang D, Liu L, Ye J. Cl - modification for effective promotion of photoelectrochemical water oxidation over BiVO 4. Chem Commun (Camb) 2020; 56:13153-13156. [PMID: 33016292 DOI: 10.1039/d0cc05334a] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/21/2022]
Abstract
Postsynthetic treatment is an attractive method to enhance photoelectrochemical water splitting. The facile Cl- modification approach developed in this work remarkably promotes the photocurrent density of BiVO4 up to 2.7 mA cm-2 by facilitating carrier transfer in addition to a charge carrier separation efficiency enhancement.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zhe Li
- TJU-NIMS International Collaboration Laboratory, Key Laboratory of Advanced Ceramics and Machining Technology (Ministry of Education) and Tianjin Key Laboratory of Composite and Functional Materials, School of Material Science and Engineering, Tianjin University, Tianjin 300072, China.
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22
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Noble Metal Modification of CdS-Covered CuInS2 Electrodes for Improved Photoelectrochemical Activity and Stability. Catalysts 2020. [DOI: 10.3390/catal10090949] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/17/2023] Open
Abstract
In this paper, efficient and stable photoelectrochemical (PEC) hydrogen (H2) evolution using copper indium sulfide (CuInS2) thin film electrodes was studied. Modification with a cadmium sulfide (CdS) layer led to improved charge separation at the interface between CuInS2 and CdS; however, the photocorrosive nature of CdS induced poor stability of the photocathode. Further surface coating with an electrodeposited Pt layer over the CdS-covered CuInS2 photocathode prevented the CdS layer from making contact with the electrolyte solution, and enabled efficient PEC H2 evolution without appreciable degradation. This indicates that the Pt layer functioned not only as a reaction site for H2 evolution, but also as a protection layer. In addition, it was found that surface protection using a noble metal layer was also effective for stable PEC carbon dioxide (CO2) reduction when appropriate noble metal cocatalysts were selected. When Au or Ag was used, carbon monoxide was obtained as a product of PEC CO2 reduction.
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23
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Tao JJ, Ma HP, Yuan KP, Gu Y, Lian JW, Li XX, Huang W, Nolan M, Lu HL, Zhang DW. Modification of 1D TiO 2 nanowires with GaO xN y by atomic layer deposition for TiO 2@GaO xN y core-shell nanowires with enhanced photoelectrochemical performance. NANOSCALE 2020; 12:7159-7173. [PMID: 32193525 DOI: 10.1039/c9nr10908k] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/10/2023]
Abstract
As a well-known semiconductor that can catalyse the oxygen evolution reaction, TiO2 has been extensively investigated for its solar photoelectrochemical water properties. Unmodified TiO2 shows some issues, particularly with respect to its photoelectrochemical performance. In this paper, we present a strategy for the controlled deposition of controlled amounts of GaOxNy cocatalysts on TiO2 1D nanowires (TiO2@GaOxNy core-shell) using atomic layer deposition. We show that this modification significantly enhances the photoelectrochemical performance compared to pure TiO2 NW photoanodes. For our most active TiO2@GaOxNy core-shell nanowires with a GaOxNy thickness of 20 nm, a photocurrent density up to 1.10 mA cm-2 (at 1.23 V vs. RHE) under AM 1.5 G irradiation (100 mW cm-2) has been achieved, which is 14 times higher than that of unmodified TiO2 NWs. Furthermore, the band gap matching with TiO2 enhances the absorption of visible light over unmodified TiO2 and the facile oxygen vacancy formation after the deposition of GaOxNy also provides active sites for water activation. Density functional theory studies of model systems of GaOxNy-modified TiO2 confirm the band gap reduction, high reducibility and ability to activate water. The highly efficient and stable systems of TiO2@GaOxNy core-shell nanowires with ALD deposited GaOxNy demonstrate a good strategy for the fabrication of core-shell structures that enhance the photoelectrochemical performance of readily available photoanodes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jia-Jia Tao
- State Key Laboratory of ASIC and System, Shanghai Institute of Intelligent Electronics & Systems, School of Microelectronics, Fudan University, Shanghai 200433, China.
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24
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Lee H, Yang W, Tan J, Park J, Shim SG, Park YS, Yun JW, Kim KM, Moon J. High-Performance Phase-Pure SnS Photocathodes for Photoelectrochemical Water Splitting Obtained via Molecular Ink-Derived Seed-Assisted Growth of Nanoplates. ACS APPLIED MATERIALS & INTERFACES 2020; 12:15155-15166. [PMID: 32167272 DOI: 10.1021/acsami.9b23045] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/10/2023]
Abstract
Although tin monosulfide (SnS) is one of the promising earth-abundant semiconducting materials for photoelectrochemical water splitting, the performance of SnS photocathodes remains poor. Herein, we report a stepwise approach for the fabrication of highly efficient photocathodes based on SnS nanoplates via elaborate modulation of molecular solutions. It is demonstrated that phase-pure SnS nanoplates without detrimental secondary phases (such as SnS2 and Sn2S3) can be readily obtained by adjusting the amounts of Sn and S in the precursor solution. Additionally, the orientation of SnS nanoplates is controlled by implementing different types of SnS seed layers. The orientations of the SnS seed layers are changed according to the molecular shapes of the Sn-S bonds in the molecular solutions, depending on the relative nucleophilicity of the molecular moieties formed by specific thiol-amine reactions. The molecular Sn-S sheets in the seed ink was obtained by the reaction in a solvent mixture of thiogylcolic acid and ethanolamine. By contrast, the short Sn-S molecular rods result from the reaction in a solvent mixture of 2-mercaptoethanol and ethylenediamine. Interestingly, the relatively short rodlike morphology of the SnS seed induces the growth of SnS nanostructures faceted by preferred (111) and (101) planes, leading to fast charge transport. With the formation of a proper band alignment with n-type CdS and TiO2, the preferred (111)- and (101)-oriented SnS nanoplate-based photocathode exhibited a photocurrent density of -19 mA cm-2 at 0 V versus a reversible hydrogen electrode, establishing a new benchmark for SnS photocathodes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hyungsoo Lee
- Department of Materials Science and Engineering, Yonsei University, Seoul 03722, Republic of Korea
| | - Wooseok Yang
- Department of Materials Science and Engineering, Yonsei University, Seoul 03722, Republic of Korea
| | - Jeiwan Tan
- Department of Materials Science and Engineering, Yonsei University, Seoul 03722, Republic of Korea
| | - Jaemin Park
- Department of Materials Science and Engineering, Yonsei University, Seoul 03722, Republic of Korea
| | - Sang Gi Shim
- Department of Materials Science and Engineering, Yonsei University, Seoul 03722, Republic of Korea
| | - Young Sun Park
- Department of Materials Science and Engineering, Yonsei University, Seoul 03722, Republic of Korea
| | - Ju Won Yun
- Department of Materials Science and Engineering, Yonsei University, Seoul 03722, Republic of Korea
| | - Kyung Min Kim
- Department of Materials Science and Engineering, Yonsei University, Seoul 03722, Republic of Korea
| | - Jooho Moon
- Department of Materials Science and Engineering, Yonsei University, Seoul 03722, Republic of Korea
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25
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Pan L, Liu Y, Yao L, Dan Ren, Sivula K, Grätzel M, Hagfeldt A. Cu 2O photocathodes with band-tail states assisted hole transport for standalone solar water splitting. Nat Commun 2020; 11:318. [PMID: 31949135 PMCID: PMC6965123 DOI: 10.1038/s41467-019-13987-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 58] [Impact Index Per Article: 14.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/10/2019] [Accepted: 12/05/2019] [Indexed: 11/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Photoelectrochemical water splitting provides a promising solution for harvesting and storing solar energy. As the best-performing oxide photocathode, the Cu2O photocathode holds the performance rivaling that of many photovoltaic semiconductor-based photocathodes through continuous research and development. However, the state-of-the-art Cu2O photocathode employs gold as the back contact which can lead to considerable electron-hole recombination. Here, we present a Cu2O photocathode with overall improved performance, enabled by using solution-processed CuSCN as hole transport material. Two types of CuSCN with different structures are synthesized and carefully compared. Furthermore, detailed characterizations reveal that hole transport between Cu2O and CuSCN is assisted by band-tail states. Owing to the multiple advantages of applying CuSCN as the hole transport layer, a standalone solar water splitting tandem cell is built, delivering a solar-to-hydrogen efficiency of 4.55%. Finally, approaches towards more efficient dual-absorber tandems are discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Linfeng Pan
- Laboratory of Photomolecular Science, Institute of Chemical Sciences and Engineering, École Polytechnique Fédérale de Lausanne (EPFL), Lausanne, CH-1015, Switzerland
| | - Yuhang Liu
- Laboratory of Photonics and Interfaces, Institute of Chemical Sciences and Engineering, École Polytechnique Fédérale de Lausanne (EPFL), Lausanne, CH-1015, Switzerland
| | - Liang Yao
- Laboratory of Molecular Engineering of Optoelectronic Nanomaterials, Institute of Chemical Sciences and Engineering, École Polytechnique Fédérale de Lausanne (EPFL), Lausanne, CH-1015, Switzerland
| | - Dan Ren
- Laboratory of Photonics and Interfaces, Institute of Chemical Sciences and Engineering, École Polytechnique Fédérale de Lausanne (EPFL), Lausanne, CH-1015, Switzerland
| | - Kevin Sivula
- Laboratory of Molecular Engineering of Optoelectronic Nanomaterials, Institute of Chemical Sciences and Engineering, École Polytechnique Fédérale de Lausanne (EPFL), Lausanne, CH-1015, Switzerland
| | - Michael Grätzel
- Laboratory of Photonics and Interfaces, Institute of Chemical Sciences and Engineering, École Polytechnique Fédérale de Lausanne (EPFL), Lausanne, CH-1015, Switzerland
| | - Anders Hagfeldt
- Laboratory of Photomolecular Science, Institute of Chemical Sciences and Engineering, École Polytechnique Fédérale de Lausanne (EPFL), Lausanne, CH-1015, Switzerland.
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26
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Abstract
CO2 emissions from the consumption of fossil fuels are continuously increasing, thus impacting Earth’s climate. In this context, intensive research efforts are being dedicated to develop materials that can effectively reduce CO2 levels in the atmosphere and convert CO2 into value-added chemicals and fuels, thus contributing to sustainable energy and meeting the increase in energy demand. The development of clean energy by conversion technologies is of high priority to circumvent these challenges. Among the various methods that include photoelectrochemical, high-temperature conversion, electrocatalytic, biocatalytic, and organocatalytic reactions, photocatalytic CO2 reduction has received great attention because of its potential to efficiently reduce the level of CO2 in the atmosphere by converting it into fuels and value-added chemicals. Among the reported CO2 conversion catalysts, perovskite oxides catalyze redox reactions and exhibit high catalytic activity, stability, long charge diffusion lengths, compositional flexibility, and tunable band gap and band edge. This review focuses on recent advances and future prospects in the design and performance of perovskites for CO2 conversion, particularly emphasizing on the structure of the catalysts, defect engineering and interface tuning at the nanoscale, and conversion technologies and rational approaches for enhancing CO2 transformation to value-added chemicals and chemical feedstocks.
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27
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Monllor-Satoca D, Díez-García MI, Lana-Villarreal T, Gómez R. Photoelectrocatalytic production of solar fuels with semiconductor oxides: materials, activity and modeling. Chem Commun (Camb) 2020; 56:12272-12289. [DOI: 10.1039/d0cc04387g] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
Transition metal oxides keep on being excellent candidates as electrode materials for the photoelectrochemical conversion of solar energy into chemical energy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Damián Monllor-Satoca
- Departament de Química Física i Institut Universitari d'Electroquímica
- Universitat d'Alacant
- Alicante
- Spain
| | - María Isabel Díez-García
- Departament de Química Física i Institut Universitari d'Electroquímica
- Universitat d'Alacant
- Alicante
- Spain
| | - Teresa Lana-Villarreal
- Departament de Química Física i Institut Universitari d'Electroquímica
- Universitat d'Alacant
- Alicante
- Spain
| | - Roberto Gómez
- Departament de Química Física i Institut Universitari d'Electroquímica
- Universitat d'Alacant
- Alicante
- Spain
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Zhong P, Xie J, Bagheri R, Yi Q, Chen Q, Tan J, He L, Zhang F, Zhang L, Zou G. An aqueous solution method towards Sb 2S 3 thin films for photoanodes. Chem Commun (Camb) 2019; 55:14530-14533. [PMID: 31738364 DOI: 10.1039/c9cc07005b] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/07/2023]
Abstract
An aqueous solution approach, integrating atomic layer deposition and chemical vapor deposition, is proposed to grow a high-quality Sb2S3 thin film. The Sb2S3 thin film is uniform and dense with a bandgap of 1.78 eV. The photocurrent density of the Sb2S3 sensitized TiO2 array electrode is 40 μA cm-2, which is nearly 25 and 93 times than that of TiO2 and Sb2S3 photoanodes, respectively.
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Affiliation(s)
- Panping Zhong
- School of New Energy Science and Engineering, Xinyu University, Xinyu 338004, China
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Farhat R, Dhainy J, Halaoui LI. OER Catalysis at Activated and Codeposited NiFe-Oxo/Hydroxide Thin Films Is Due to Postdeposition Surface-Fe and Is Not Sustainable without Fe in Solution. ACS Catal 2019. [DOI: 10.1021/acscatal.9b02580] [Citation(s) in RCA: 64] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Rida Farhat
- Department of Chemistry, American University of Beirut, Beirut, Lebanon 110236
| | - Jihan Dhainy
- Department of Chemistry, American University of Beirut, Beirut, Lebanon 110236
| | - Lara I. Halaoui
- Department of Chemistry, American University of Beirut, Beirut, Lebanon 110236
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Pan L, Vlachopoulos N, Hagfeldt A. Directly Photoexcited Oxides for Photoelectrochemical Water Splitting. CHEMSUSCHEM 2019; 12:4337-4352. [PMID: 31478349 DOI: 10.1002/cssc.201900849] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/26/2019] [Revised: 06/02/2019] [Indexed: 06/10/2023]
Abstract
Artificial photosynthesis promises to become a sustainable way to harvest solar energy and store it in chemical fuels by means of photoelectrochemical (PEC) cells. Although it is intriguing to shift the fossil-fuel-based economy to a renewable carbon-neutral one, which will alleviate environmental problems, there is still a long way to go before it rivals traditional energy sources. Existing solar water-splitting devices can be sorted into three categories: photovoltaic-powered electrolysis, PEC water splitting, and photocatalysis (PC). PEC and PC systems hold the potential to further reduce the cost of devices due to their simple structures in which photoabsorbers and catalysts are closely integrated. PC is expected to be the least expensive approach; however, additional costs and concerns are brought about by the subsequent explosive gas separation. At the heart of all devices, semiconductor photoabsorbers should be efficient, robust, and cheap to satisfy the strict requirements on the market. Therefore, this Review intends to give readers an overview on PEC water splitting, with an emphasis on oxide material-based devices, which hold the potential to support global-scale production in the future.
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Affiliation(s)
- Linfeng Pan
- Laboratory of Photomolecular Science, Institute of Chemical Sciences and Engineering, Swiss Federal Institute of Technology in Lausanne (EPFL), 1015, Lausanne, Switzerland
| | - Nick Vlachopoulos
- Laboratory of Photomolecular Science, Institute of Chemical Sciences and Engineering, Swiss Federal Institute of Technology in Lausanne (EPFL), 1015, Lausanne, Switzerland
| | - Anders Hagfeldt
- Laboratory of Photomolecular Science, Institute of Chemical Sciences and Engineering, Swiss Federal Institute of Technology in Lausanne (EPFL), 1015, Lausanne, Switzerland
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Xie J, Yi Q, Zhang F, Bagheri R, Zheng F, Zou G. Large-Grained Cu 2BaSnS 4 Films for Photocathodes. ACS APPLIED MATERIALS & INTERFACES 2019; 11:33102-33108. [PMID: 31385686 DOI: 10.1021/acsami.9b07410] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/10/2023]
Abstract
p-Type compounds Cu2BaSnS4 (CBTS) are extremely attractive materials for photocathode applications because of their suitable conduction and valence bands, earth-abundant sources, and environmental friendly nature. Herein, an inexpensive and reproducible aqueous solution approach has been developed to synthesize CBTS films with single-crystalline grains as large as micron scale. Because of the large crystalline grains, the as-grown CBTS films show excellent carrier mobility (1.29 cm2/V·s). Greater than 4 mA·cm-2 photocurrent density has been obtained in a neutral solution for bare Mo/CBTS film photocathodes under 100 mW·cm-2 illumination at 0 V versus reversible hydrogen electrode.
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Affiliation(s)
- Juan Xie
- School of Physical Science and Technology, College of Energy, Soochow Institute for Energy and Materials Innovations and Key Laboratory of Advanced Carbon Materials and Wearable Energy Technologies of Jiangsu Province , Soochow University , Suzhou 215006 , China
| | - Qinghua Yi
- College of Physics and Engineering , Changshu Institute of Technology and Jiangsu Laboratory of Advanced Functional Materials , Changshu 215500 , China
| | - Fayun Zhang
- School of New Energy Science and Engineering , Xinyu University , Xinyu 338004 , China
| | - Robabeh Bagheri
- School of Physical Science and Technology, College of Energy, Soochow Institute for Energy and Materials Innovations and Key Laboratory of Advanced Carbon Materials and Wearable Energy Technologies of Jiangsu Province , Soochow University , Suzhou 215006 , China
| | - Fengang Zheng
- School of Physical Science and Technology, College of Energy, Soochow Institute for Energy and Materials Innovations and Key Laboratory of Advanced Carbon Materials and Wearable Energy Technologies of Jiangsu Province , Soochow University , Suzhou 215006 , China
| | - Guifu Zou
- School of Physical Science and Technology, College of Energy, Soochow Institute for Energy and Materials Innovations and Key Laboratory of Advanced Carbon Materials and Wearable Energy Technologies of Jiangsu Province , Soochow University , Suzhou 215006 , China
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Centi G, Iaquaniello G, Perathoner S. Chemical engineering role in the use of renewable energy and alternative carbon sources in chemical production. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2019. [DOI: 10.1186/s42480-019-0006-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 35] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
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Yang W, Prabhakar RR, Tan J, Tilley SD, Moon J. Strategies for enhancing the photocurrent, photovoltage, and stability of photoelectrodes for photoelectrochemical water splitting. Chem Soc Rev 2019; 48:4979-5015. [DOI: 10.1039/c8cs00997j] [Citation(s) in RCA: 230] [Impact Index Per Article: 46.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/22/2022]
Abstract
In this review, we survey recent strategies for photoelectrode optimization and advanced characterization methods towards efficient water splitting cells via feedback from these characterization methods.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wooseok Yang
- Department of Materials Science and Engineering
- Yonsei University
- 03722 Seoul
- Republic of Korea
| | | | - Jeiwan Tan
- Department of Materials Science and Engineering
- Yonsei University
- 03722 Seoul
- Republic of Korea
| | - S. David Tilley
- Department of Chemistry
- University of Zurich
- 8057 Zurich
- Switzerland
| | - Jooho Moon
- Department of Materials Science and Engineering
- Yonsei University
- 03722 Seoul
- Republic of Korea
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