1
|
Chang J, Xie Y, Shi W, Jiang J, Zhang H, Wang G. The lead-free perovskite-based heterojunction C 2N/CsGeI 3: an exploration for superior visible-light absorption. Phys Chem Chem Phys 2024; 26:17315-17323. [PMID: 38860395 DOI: 10.1039/d4cp01570c] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/12/2024]
Abstract
Halide perovskites have distinguished themselves among the numerous optoelectronic materials due to their versatile processing technology and exceptional optical response. Unfortunately, their stability and toxicity from heavy metals severely hamper their development, in addition to the challenge of further improving photovoltaic performance. Hence, a lead-free perovskite-based heterojunction, C2N/CsGeI3, is investigated using a hybrid density functional, including electron structures, charge density differences, optical properties and more. The study reveals the presence of a built-in electric field directed from the CsGeI3 to the C2N layer. Moreover, based on the work function, it is confirmed that the electrons are transferred in a Z-scheme mechanism after the CsGeI3 contacts with the C2N layer. Under light irradiation, the construction of the C2N/CsGeI3 heterojunction significantly enhances optical absorption within the range of visible-light wavelengths. Additionally, the impact of interfacial strain on the C2N/CsGeI3 is explored and discussed. These findings not only suggest that the C2N/CsGeI3 heterojunction holds promise for photovoltaic applications but also provide a theoretical insight into lead-free perovskite-based functional materials.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Junli Chang
- School of Physical Science and Technology, Chongqing Key Laboratory of Micro & Nano Structure Optoelectronics, Southwest University, Chongqing 400715, China.
| | - Yumeng Xie
- School of Physical Science and Technology, Chongqing Key Laboratory of Micro & Nano Structure Optoelectronics, Southwest University, Chongqing 400715, China.
| | - Wenwu Shi
- School of Physical Science and Technology, Chongqing Key Laboratory of Micro & Nano Structure Optoelectronics, Southwest University, Chongqing 400715, China.
| | - Jinguo Jiang
- School of Physical Science and Technology, Chongqing Key Laboratory of Micro & Nano Structure Optoelectronics, Southwest University, Chongqing 400715, China.
| | - Hongyan Zhang
- School of Medical Instrument, Shenyang Pharmaceutical University, Shenyang 110016, China
| | - Guangzhao Wang
- Key Laboratory of Extraordinary Bond Engineering and Advanced Materials Technology of Chongqing, School of Electronic Information Engineering, Yangtze Normal University, Chongqing 408100, China.
| |
Collapse
|
2
|
Maymoun M, Elomrani A, Oukahou S, Bahou Y, Hasnaoui A, Sbiaai K. Enhancement in photocatalytic water splitting using van der Waals heterostructure materials based on penta-layers. Phys Chem Chem Phys 2023; 25:3401-3412. [PMID: 36633598 DOI: 10.1039/d2cp04866c] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/13/2023]
Abstract
Recently, van der Waals heterostructures (vdWHs) have been used to improve the performance of 2D materials, enabling more applications. By using first-principles calculations, we have studied the electronic and optical properties of vdWHs composed of penta-siligraphene and other penta-layers (p-Si2C4/p-X; X = Si2N4, ZnO2, Ge2C4 or SiGeC4). The stability of the vdWHs is verified by computing their binding energy, vibrational phonon spectra and ab initio molecular dynamics simulations. By assessing the electronic properties, we have found that the p-Si2C4/p-ZnO2, p-Si2C4/p-Ge2C4 and p-Si2C4/p-SiGeC4 vdWHs are semiconductors with an indirect band gap characterized by type-I band alignment. Meanwhile, the p-Si2C4/p-Si2N4 vdWH is a quasi-direct band gap semiconductor characterized by type-II band alignment. Bader charge analysis and charge density of p-Si2C4/p-Si2N4 vdWHs showed that photogenerated electrons move from the p-Si2N4 monolayer to the p-Si2C4 monolayer limiting the recombination of photogenerated charges and improving the photocatalytic efficiency. Furthermore, the p-Si2C4/p-Si2N4 vdWH exhibits suitable band edge positions compared to isolated monolayers suggesting its potential applicability in photocatalytic water splitting. The calculated optical absorption revealed that the p-Si2N4 monolayer exhibits substantial optical absorption in the ultraviolet (UV) range, while the p-Si2C4 monolayer and the p-Si2C4/p-Si2N4 vdWH show outstanding optical absorption on the order of 105 cm-1 in the visible and UV ranges. More importantly, the p-Si2C4/p-Si2N4 vdWH can greatly improve the optical absorption in these regions, which leads to high-efficiency usage of solar energy. Our study provides a route to design new vdWHs based on pentagonal monolayers, as well as an efficient photocatalyst for photocatalytic water splitting and optical devices.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- M Maymoun
- LS2ME Laboratory, Sultan Moulay Slimane University of Beni Mellal, Polydisciplinary Faculty of Khouribga, B.P. 145, 25000 Khouribga, Morocco.
| | - A Elomrani
- LS2ME Laboratory, Sultan Moulay Slimane University of Beni Mellal, Polydisciplinary Faculty of Khouribga, B.P. 145, 25000 Khouribga, Morocco.
| | - S Oukahou
- LS2ME Laboratory, Sultan Moulay Slimane University of Beni Mellal, Polydisciplinary Faculty of Khouribga, B.P. 145, 25000 Khouribga, Morocco.
| | - Y Bahou
- LS2ME Laboratory, Sultan Moulay Slimane University of Beni Mellal, Polydisciplinary Faculty of Khouribga, B.P. 145, 25000 Khouribga, Morocco. .,Univ Hassan 1, Laboratoire Rayonnement-Matière et Instrumentation (RMI), FST Settat, KM 3 B.P. 577 route de Casablanca, 26000, Morocco
| | - A Hasnaoui
- LS2ME Laboratory, Sultan Moulay Slimane University of Beni Mellal, Polydisciplinary Faculty of Khouribga, B.P. 145, 25000 Khouribga, Morocco.
| | - K Sbiaai
- LS2ME Laboratory, Sultan Moulay Slimane University of Beni Mellal, Polydisciplinary Faculty of Khouribga, B.P. 145, 25000 Khouribga, Morocco.
| |
Collapse
|
3
|
Yan S, Chen W, Xiong W, Yang L, Luo R, Wang F. Dicarbon nitride and Janus transition metal chalcogenides van der Waals heterojunctions for photocatalytic water splitting. JOURNAL OF PHYSICS. CONDENSED MATTER : AN INSTITUTE OF PHYSICS JOURNAL 2022; 51:014003. [PMID: 36317286 DOI: 10.1088/1361-648x/ac9e85] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/25/2022] [Accepted: 10/28/2022] [Indexed: 06/16/2023]
Abstract
Two-dimensional graphene-like dicarbon nitride (C2N) is a newly synthesized metal-free material, which has attracted significant research interest owing to the direct band gap, high carrier mobility, thermal stability, and great tunable properties. However, their application in photocatalytic water splitting has not been well explored. In this work, the properties of photocatalytic water decomposition in heterojunctions composed of C2N and transition metal dichalcogenides (TMDs) with Janus structure MoXY (X, Y = S, Se, Te) are systematically studied by the first-principles calculations based on density functional theory. The results show that except for MoTeS/C2N, the other five heterojunctions have type-Ⅱ band alignment, which causes electrons and holes to gather in the C2N and MoXY layer separately. Because the coupled built-in electric field at the intra-layer and inter-layer of asymmetric TMDs with Janus structure forms van der Waals heterojunction, the external electric field is an effective means of modulating the electronic properties of the heterojunction. Under the imposition of an external electric field, the MoSeS/C2N, MoTeSe/C2N, and MoTeS/C2N heterojunctions meet the band edge requirements for the photocatalytic decomposition of water. Detailed analysis demonstrates that the MoSeS/C2N heterojunction could effectively improve the optical absorption properties of monolayer C2N, making it a potential photocatalytic water decomposition material.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Su Yan
- International Laboratory for Quantum Functional Materials of Henan, School of Physics and Microelectronics, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou 450001, People's Republic of China
| | - Weiguang Chen
- Quantum Materials Research Center, College of Physics and Electronic Engineering, Zhengzhou Normal University, Zhengzhou 450044, People's Republic of China
| | - Wen Xiong
- Chongqing Institute of Green and Intelligent Technology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Chongqing 400714, People's Republic of China
| | - Liang Yang
- School of Materials Science and Engineering, Hainan University, Haikou 570228, People's Republic of China
| | - Ronghui Luo
- International Laboratory for Quantum Functional Materials of Henan, School of Physics and Microelectronics, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou 450001, People's Republic of China
| | - Fei Wang
- International Laboratory for Quantum Functional Materials of Henan, School of Physics and Microelectronics, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou 450001, People's Republic of China
| |
Collapse
|
4
|
Liu M, Tang Y, Yao H, Bai L, Song J, Ma B. Theoretical study on photocatalytic performance of ZnO/C2N heterostructure towards high efficiency water splitting. Front Chem 2022; 10:1048437. [PMID: 36339040 PMCID: PMC9626801 DOI: 10.3389/fchem.2022.1048437] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/19/2022] [Accepted: 09/29/2022] [Indexed: 11/24/2022] Open
Abstract
The construction of van der Waals heterostructures offers effective boosting of the photocatalytic performance of two-dimensional materials. In this study, which uses the first-principles method, the electronic and absorptive properties of an emerging ZnO/C2N heterostructure are systematically explored to determine the structure’s photocatalytic potential. The results demonstrate that ZnO and C2N form a type-II band alignment heterostructure with a reduced band gap, and hence superior absorption in the visible region. Furthermore, the band edge positions of a ZnO/C2N heterostructure meet the requirements for spontaneous water splitting. The ZnO/C2N heterostructure is known to possess considerably improved carrier mobility, which is advantageous in the separation and migration of carriers. The Gibbs free energy calculation confirms the high catalytic activity of the ZnO/C2N heterostructure for water-splitting reactions. All the aforementioned properties, including band gap, band edge positions, and optical absorption, can be directly tuned using biaxial lateral strain. A suitable band gap, decent band edge positions, high catalytic activity, and superior carrier mobility thus identify a ZnO/C2N heterostructure as a prominent potential photocatalyst for water splitting.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Meiping Liu
- Henan Key Laboratory of Smart Lighting, Huanghuai University, Zhumadian, Henan, China
- School of Materials Science and Engineering, Xiangtan University, Xiangtan, Hunan, China
| | - Yong Tang
- School of Materials Science and Engineering, Xiangtan University, Xiangtan, Hunan, China
- School of Energy Engineering, Huanghuai University, Zhumadian, Henan, China
- *Correspondence: Yong Tang,
| | - Haizi Yao
- School of Energy Engineering, Huanghuai University, Zhumadian, Henan, China
| | - Liuyang Bai
- School of Energy Engineering, Huanghuai University, Zhumadian, Henan, China
| | - Jun Song
- School of Energy Engineering, Huanghuai University, Zhumadian, Henan, China
| | - Benyuan Ma
- School of Energy Engineering, Huanghuai University, Zhumadian, Henan, China
| |
Collapse
|
5
|
Theoretical study on the mechanism of CO2 adsorption and reduction by single-atom M (M = Cu, Co, Ni) doping C2N. Chem Phys Lett 2022. [DOI: 10.1016/j.cplett.2022.139902] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/22/2022]
|
6
|
Engineering 2D Materials for Photocatalytic Water-Splitting from a Theoretical Perspective. MATERIALS 2022; 15:ma15062221. [PMID: 35329672 PMCID: PMC8954018 DOI: 10.3390/ma15062221] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/08/2022] [Revised: 03/06/2022] [Accepted: 03/14/2022] [Indexed: 12/19/2022]
Abstract
Splitting of water with the help of photocatalysts has gained a strong interest in the scientific community for producing clean energy, thus requiring novel semiconductor materials to achieve high-yield hydrogen production. The emergence of 2D nanoscale materials with remarkable electronic and optical properties has received much attention in this field. Owing to the recent developments in high-end computation and advanced electronic structure theories, first principles studies offer powerful tools to screen photocatalytic systems reliably and efficiently. This review is organized to highlight the essential properties of 2D photocatalysts and the recent advances in the theoretical engineering of 2D materials for the improvement in photocatalytic overall water-splitting. The advancement in the strategies including (i) single-atom catalysts, (ii) defect engineering, (iii) strain engineering, (iv) Janus structures, (v) type-II heterostructures (vi) Z-scheme heterostructures (vii) multilayer configurations (viii) edge-modification in nanoribbons and (ix) the effect of pH in overall water-splitting are summarized to improve the existing problems for a photocatalytic catalytic reaction such as overcoming large overpotential to trigger the water-splitting reactions without using cocatalysts. This review could serve as a bridge between theoretical and experimental research on next-generation 2D photocatalysts.
Collapse
|
7
|
Fu C, Wang G, Huang Y, Chen Y, Yuan H, Ang YS, Chen H. Two-dimensional CdS/SnS 2 heterostructure: a highly efficient direct Z-scheme water splitting photocatalyst. Phys Chem Chem Phys 2022; 24:3826-3833. [PMID: 35084406 DOI: 10.1039/d1cp04679a] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/21/2022]
Abstract
A desired water splitting photocatalyst should not only possess a suitable bandgap and band edge position, but also host the spontaneous progress for overall water splitting without the aid of any sacrificial agents. In this work, we propose a two-dimensional CdS/SnS2 heterostructure (CSHS) as a possible water splitting photocatalyst by first-principles calculations. The CSHS enhances the absorption of visible and infrared light, and the type-II band alignment guarantees the spatial separation of the photoinduced carriers. The induced built-in electric field across the CSHS interface efficiently separates the photoexcited carriers and extends their carrier lifetimes. All these properties make the CSHS a direct Z-scheme system with the hydrogen and oxygen evolution reactions occurring, respectively, at the CdS and SnS2 layers. More encouragingly, the introduction of a S-vacancy into SnS2 could effectively lower the overpotential of the oxygen evolution reaction, thus ensuring the overall water redox reaction to be achieved spontaneously under light irradiation. Our findings suggest that the CSHS is a promising water splitting photocatalyst.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Can Fu
- School of Physics Science and Technology, Southwest University, Chongqing 400715, China.
| | - Guangzhao Wang
- Key Laboratory of Extraordinary Bond Engineering and Advanced Materials Technology of Chongqing, School of Electronic Information Engineering, Yangtze Normal University, Chongqing 408100, China. .,Science, Mathematics and Technology, Singapore University of Technology and Design, Singapore, 487372, Singapore
| | - Yuhong Huang
- School of Physics Science and Technology, Southwest University, Chongqing 400715, China.
| | - Ying Chen
- School of Physics Science and Technology, Southwest University, Chongqing 400715, China. .,School of Electronic and Information Engineering, Anshun College, Anshun 561000, China
| | - Hongkuan Yuan
- School of Physics Science and Technology, Southwest University, Chongqing 400715, China.
| | - Yee Sin Ang
- Science, Mathematics and Technology, Singapore University of Technology and Design, Singapore, 487372, Singapore
| | - Hong Chen
- School of Physics Science and Technology, Southwest University, Chongqing 400715, China.
| |
Collapse
|
8
|
Guo R, Wei X, Cao M, Zhang Y, Yang Y, Fan J, Liu J, Tian Y, Zhao Z, Duan L. Optical and Tunable Electronic Properties of AlAs/InSe Van Der Waals Heterostructures. ACTA CHIMICA SINICA 2022. [DOI: 10.6023/a21120543] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/24/2022]
|
9
|
Slassi A. Band offset engineering at C 2N/MSe 2 (M = Mo, W) interfaces. RSC Adv 2022; 12:12068-12077. [PMID: 35481105 PMCID: PMC9019558 DOI: 10.1039/d2ra00847e] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/09/2022] [Accepted: 04/11/2022] [Indexed: 11/21/2022] Open
Abstract
Stacking layered two-dimensional materials in a type-II band alignment block has provided a high-performance method in photocatalytic water-splitting technology. The key parameters in such heterostructure configurations are the valence and conduction band offsets at the interface, which determine the device performance. Here, based on density functional theory calculations, the bandgap and band offsets at C2N/MSe2 (M = Mo, W) interfaces have been engineered. The main findings demonstrate that the C2N monolayer interacts with both MoSe2 and WSe2 monolayers through weak van der Waals interactions. These heterostructures possess a narrower indirect bandgap and a typical type-II heterostructure feature, being suitable for promoting the separation of photogenerated electron–hole pairs. The calculated Gibbs free energy of hydrogen adsorption demonstrates a reduction in the overpotential, towards the hydrogen evolution reaction, upon forming heterostructures. To further tune the bandgap values and band offsets of heterostructures, the external perturbations are included through a vertical strain and finite electric field. It is found that both the vertical strain and electric field strongly modulate the bandgap values and the magnitude of the band offsets, while the typical type-II band alignment remains preserved. It is noticeable that the band offset magnitudes of the C2N/MoSe2 and C2N/WSe2 heterostructures are more sensitive to an external electric field than to a vertical interlayer strain. Stacking layered two-dimensional materials in a type-II band alignment block has provided a high-performance method in photocatalytic water-splitting technology.![]()
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Amine Slassi
- Istituto Nanoscienze-CNR, Via Campi 213a, I-41125 Modena, Italy
- Laboratory for Chemistry of Novel Materials, Université de Mons, Place du Parc 20, 7000 Mons, Belgium
| |
Collapse
|
10
|
Bafekry A, Faraji M, Hieu NN, Ang YS, Karbasizadeh S, Abdolhosseini Sarsari I, Ghergherehchi M. Two-dimensional Dirac half-metal in porous carbon nitride C 6N 7monolayer via atomic doping. NANOTECHNOLOGY 2021; 33:075707. [PMID: 34673552 DOI: 10.1088/1361-6528/ac31e7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/12/2021] [Accepted: 10/21/2021] [Indexed: 06/13/2023]
Abstract
Motivated by the recent experimental discovery of C6N7monolayer (Zhaoet al2021Science Bulletin66, 1764), we show that C6N7monolayer co-doped with C atom is a Dirac half-metal by employing first-principle density functional theory calculations. The structural, mechanical, electronic and magnetic properties of the co-doped C6N7are investigated by both the PBE and HSE06 functionals. Pristine C6N7monolayer is a semiconductor with almost isotropic electronic dispersion around the Γ point. As the doping of the C6N7takes place, the substitution of an N atom with a C atom transforms the monolayer into a dilute magnetic semiconductor, with the spin-up channel showing a band gap of 2.3 eV, while the spin-down channel exhibits a semimetallic phase with multiple Dirac points. The thermodynamic stability of the system is also checked out via AIMD simulations, showing the monolayer to be free of distortion at 500 K. The emergence of Dirac half-metal in carbon nitride monolayer via atomic doping reveals an exciting material platform for designing novel nanoelectronics and spintronics devices.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- A Bafekry
- Department of Radiation Application, Shahid Beheshti University, Tehran, Iran
| | - M Faraji
- Micro and Nanotechnology Graduate Program, TOBB University of Economics and Technology, Sogutozu Caddesi No 43 Sogutozu, 06560 Ankara, Turkey
| | - N N Hieu
- Institute of Research and Development, Duy Tan University, Da Nang 550000, Vietnam
- Faculty of Natural Sciences, Duy Tan University, Da Nang 550000, Vietnam
| | - Yee Sin Ang
- Science, Mathematics and Technology (SMT) Cluster, Singapore University of Technology and Design, 487372, Singapore
| | - S Karbasizadeh
- Department of Physics, Isfahan University of Technology, Isfahan 84156-83111, Iran
| | | | - M Ghergherehchi
- Department of Electrical and Computer Engineering, Sungkyunkwan University, 16419 Suwon, Republic of Korea
| |
Collapse
|
11
|
Tanabe T, Nakamori K, Tanikawa T, Matsubara Y, Matsumoto F. Ultrathin nanosheet Sn3O4 for highly effective hydrogen evolution under visible light. J Photochem Photobiol A Chem 2021. [DOI: 10.1016/j.jphotochem.2021.113486] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/20/2022]
|
12
|
Chang J, Jiang L, Wang G, Huang Y, Chen H. Theoretical insight into the CdS/FAPbI3 heterostructure: a promising visible-light absorber. NEW J CHEM 2021. [DOI: 10.1039/d0nj04827e] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/18/2023]
Abstract
The optical absorption performance of the perovskite FAPbI3 in the visible-light range is significantly improved by constructing a CdS/FAPbI3 heterostructure.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Junli Chang
- School of Physical Science and Technology
- Southwest University
- Chongqing
- People's Republic of China
| | - Liping Jiang
- School of Physical Science and Technology
- Southwest University
- Chongqing
- People's Republic of China
| | - Guangzhao Wang
- Key Laboratory of Extraordinary Bond Engineering and Advanced Materials Technology of Chongqing
- School of Electronic Information Engineering
- Yangtze Normal University
- Chongqing
- People's Republic of China
| | - Yuhong Huang
- School of Physical Science and Technology
- Southwest University
- Chongqing
- People's Republic of China
| | - Hong Chen
- School of Physical Science and Technology
- Southwest University
- Chongqing
- People's Republic of China
- Key Laboratory of Luminescent and Real-Time Analytical Chemistry
| |
Collapse
|
13
|
Wang G, Geng L, Tang W, Wang B, Zhao W, Zhang W, Yuan B, Yuan H, Zhou T. Two dimensional CdS/ZnO type-II heterostructure used for photocatalytic water-splitting. NANOTECHNOLOGY 2020; 31:485701. [PMID: 32931462 DOI: 10.1088/1361-6528/abb15a] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/11/2023]
Abstract
The electronic structures of two dimensional (2D) CdS/ZnO heterostructure (CdZnHT) consisting of CdS singlelayer (SL) and ZnO SL are explored based on hybrid density functional calculation. The negative interface formation energies suggest the formation of CdZnHT is exothermic. The bandgap of CdZnHT is favorable for absorbing visible light, and the decent band edge position makes it thermodynamically feasible for spontaneous generation of oxygen and hydrogen. The formed electric field across the interface induced by charge transfer will reduce photogenerated carrier recombination and promote carrier migration. Particularly, CdZnHT is a type-II heterostructure. Oxygen generation takes place at ZnO layer and hydrogen production occurs at CdS layer, which will also promote the effective separation and migration of phogogenerated carriers and enhance photocatalytic performance. These findings suggest that 2D CdZnHTs are possible candidates as water-splitting photocatalysts.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Guangzhao Wang
- School of Electronic Information Engineering, Key Laboratory of Extraordinary Bond Engineering and Advanced Materials Technology of Chongqing, Yangtze Normal University, Chongqing 408100, People's Republic of China. Those authors contributed equally to this work
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
14
|
Wang G, Li Z, Wu W, Guo H, Chen C, Yuan H, Yang SA. A two-dimensional h-BN/C 2N heterostructure as a promising metal-free photocatalyst for overall water-splitting. Phys Chem Chem Phys 2020; 22:24446-24454. [PMID: 33084701 DOI: 10.1039/d0cp03925j] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/05/2023]
Abstract
The construction of a heterostructure (HS) is an effective strategy to modulate the desired properties of two-dimensional (2D) materials and to extend their applications. In this paper, based on the density functional theory, we predict a metal-free type-II HS formed by h-BN and C2N single layers. The h-BN/C2N HS possesses a smaller bandgap than individual h-BN and C2N single layers, and it exhibits excellent visible light absorption. Importantly, its band edge positions satisfy the requirements for spontaneous water-splitting. With the assistance of the built-in electric field across the HS and the band offset, the photoinduced carriers can be readily spatially separated. Free energy calculations indicate the high catalytic activity for water oxidation and reduction reactions. The performance can be further enhanced by strain, which modulates the bandgap and the band edge positions of the HS. The band alignment may undergo a transition from type-I to type-II under strain, offering an effective switch for the reaction. The appropriate bandgap, suitable band edge positions, and effective carrier separation make the h-BN/C2N HS a promising candidate for use as a photocatalyst in water-splitting.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Guangzhao Wang
- Key Laboratory of Micro Nano Optoelectronic Devices and Intelligent Perception Systems, Key Laboratory of Extraordinary Bond Engineering and Advanced Materials Technology of Chongqing, School of Electronic Information Engineering, Yangtze Normal University, Chongqing 408100, China.
| | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
15
|
Ashwin Kishore MR, Larsson K, Ravindran P. Two-Dimensional CdX/C 2N (X = S, Se) Heterostructures as Potential Photocatalysts for Water Splitting: A DFT Study. ACS OMEGA 2020; 5:23762-23768. [PMID: 32984695 PMCID: PMC7513353 DOI: 10.1021/acsomega.0c02804] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/13/2020] [Accepted: 07/24/2020] [Indexed: 06/11/2023]
Abstract
Global environmental issues, in addition to limited fossil fuel resources, are being addressed by quests in search of efficient visible-light-driven water splitting catalysts for hydrogen production. The photocatalytic water splitting activities of CdX/C2N (X = S, Se) heterostructures have been investigated here using hybrid density functional theory calculations. The calculated band gaps of CdS/C2N and CdSe/C2N heterostructures are 1.48 and 2.12 eV, respectively. These are ideal band gap values that make possible harvesting of more visible light from the solar spectrum, which will result in high solar to energy conversion efficiencies. Charge density difference analysis shows that the charge redistributions mainly occur in the interface regions and that the charges transfer from the C2N to CdX layers. It is interesting to note that the CdX/C2N heterostructures possess a type-II band alignment, where the relative band alignment of the C2N and CdX monolayers promotes a spatial separation of the electrons (that resides in C2N) and holes (that resides in CdX). Importantly, the band edges of the heterostructures straddle the water redox potential under different pH conditions. This study demonstrates that the CdS/C2N and CdSe/C2N heterostructures are suitable materials to split water (from various sources) in different ranges of pH values.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- M. R. Ashwin Kishore
- Department
of Chemistry, Ångström Laboratory, Uppsala University, Uppsala Box 538 751 21, Sweden
| | - Karin Larsson
- Department
of Chemistry, Ångström Laboratory, Uppsala University, Uppsala Box 538 751 21, Sweden
| | - Ponniah Ravindran
- Department
of Physics, Central University of Tamil
Nadu, Thiruvarur, Tamil Nadu 610101, India
- Simulation
Center for Atomic and Nanoscale MATerials, Central University of Tamil Nadu, Thiruvarur, Tamil Nadu 610101, India
| |
Collapse
|
16
|
Yuan PF, Han JN, Fan ZQ, Zhang ZH, Wang CZ. Stable C 2N/ h-BN van der Waals heterostructure: flexibly tunable electronic and optic properties. JOURNAL OF PHYSICS. CONDENSED MATTER : AN INSTITUTE OF PHYSICS JOURNAL 2020; 32:475001. [PMID: 32870810 DOI: 10.1088/1361-648x/abaf12] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/28/2020] [Accepted: 08/13/2020] [Indexed: 06/11/2023]
Abstract
Monolayer C2N has been successfully synthesized. To explore the enhancement of its stability and the expansion of its potential applications in electronics and optoelectronics, a vertical van der Waals heterostructure is constructed by C2N monolayer integrated withh-BN monolayer. The first-principles calculations based on the density functional theory show that this structure possesses a type-II band alignment with a smaller direct band gap and lager band offsets, suggesting that photo-generated electron-hole pairs can be well spatially separated, and thus an excellent photoelectric and photovoltaic material can be obtained. Also shown is that the electronic properties of such a heterostructure can be effectively regulated by a vertical strain and external electric field. For example, under compressive strain or forward electric field, its band gap can be significantly reduced to enhance light-excitation electron transition further, meanwhile the feature of direct band-gap and large band offsets is always well-preserved. Furthermore, it is found that the intrinsic heterostructure holds a wide optic adsorption range and large adsorption coefficient, and the applied compressive strain or a positive electric field can lead to a wide and high main absorption peak across the near-infrared, visible light, and ultraviolet region, implying that a tuned heterostructure has more promising applications in optoelectronics.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- P F Yuan
- Hunan Provincial Key Laboratory of Flexible Electronic Materials Genome Engineering, Changsha University of Science and Technology, Changsha 410114, People's Republic of China
| | - J N Han
- Hunan Provincial Key Laboratory of Flexible Electronic Materials Genome Engineering, Changsha University of Science and Technology, Changsha 410114, People's Republic of China
| | - Z Q Fan
- Hunan Provincial Key Laboratory of Flexible Electronic Materials Genome Engineering, Changsha University of Science and Technology, Changsha 410114, People's Republic of China
| | - Z H Zhang
- Hunan Provincial Key Laboratory of Flexible Electronic Materials Genome Engineering, Changsha University of Science and Technology, Changsha 410114, People's Republic of China
| | - C Z Wang
- Hunan Provincial Key Laboratory of Flexible Electronic Materials Genome Engineering, Changsha University of Science and Technology, Changsha 410114, People's Republic of China
| |
Collapse
|
17
|
Mukherjee B. Experimental Investigation with DFT Analysis Towards a Promising Recyclable Photocatalyst from g‐C
3
N
4
/ZnS Nanocomposite. ChemistrySelect 2020. [DOI: 10.1002/slct.202002785] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/08/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Biswanath Mukherjee
- Department of PhysicsSidho-Kanho-Birsha University Ranchi Road Purulia 723104 India
| |
Collapse
|
18
|
Mohanta MK, Rawat A, Jena N, Ahammed R, De Sarkar A. Superhigh flexibility and out-of-plane piezoelectricity together with strong anharmonic phonon scattering induced extremely low lattice thermal conductivity in hexagonal buckled CdX (X =S, Se) monolayers. JOURNAL OF PHYSICS. CONDENSED MATTER : AN INSTITUTE OF PHYSICS JOURNAL 2020; 32:355301. [PMID: 32340009 DOI: 10.1088/1361-648x/ab8d73] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/20/2020] [Accepted: 04/27/2020] [Indexed: 06/11/2023]
Abstract
Although CdX (X = S, Se) has been mostly studied in the field of photocatalysis, photovoltaics, their intrinsic properties, such as, mechanical, piezoelectric, electron and phonon transport properties have been completely overlooked in buckled CdX monolayers. Ultra-low lattice thermal conductivity [1.08 W m-1K-1(0.75 W m-1K-1)] and high p-type Seebeck coefficient [1300μV K-1(850μV K-1)] in CdS (CdSe) monolayers have been found in this work based on first-principles DFT coupled to semi-classical Boltzmann transport equations, combining both the electronic and phononic transport. The dimensionless thermoelectric figure of merit is calculated to be 0.78 (0.5) in CdS (CdSe) monolayers at room temperature, which is comparable to that of two-dimensional (2D) tellurene (0.8), arsenene and antimonene (0.8), indicating its great potential for applications in 2D thermoelectrics. Such a low lattice thermal conductivity arise from the participation of both acoustic [91.98% (89.22%)] and optical modes [8.02% (10.78%)] together with low Debye temperature [254 K (187 K)], low group velocity [4 km s-1(3 km s-1)] in CdS (CdSe) monolayers, high anharmonicity and short phonon lifetime. Substantial cohesive energy (∼4-5 eV), dynamical and mechanical stability of the monolayers substantiate the feasibility in synthesizing the single layers in experiments. The inversion symmetry broken along thezdirection causes out-of-plane piezoelectricity. |d33| ∼ 21.6 pm V-1, calculated in CdS monolayer is found to be the highest amongst structures having atomic-layer thickness. Superlow Young's modulus ∼41 N m-1(31 N m-1) in CdS (CdSe) monolayers, which is comparable to that of planar CdS (29 N m-1) and TcTe2(34 N m-1), is an indicator of its superhigh flexibility. Direct semiconducting band gap, high carrier mobility (∼500 cm2V-1s-1) and superhigh flexibility in CdX monolayers signify its gigantic potential for applications in ultrathin, stretchable and flexible nanoelectronics. The all-round properties can be synergistically combined together in futuristic applications in nano-piezotronics as well.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Manish Kumar Mohanta
- Institute of Nano Science and Technology, Phase 10, Sector 64, Mohali, Punjab-160062, India
| | - Ashima Rawat
- Institute of Nano Science and Technology, Phase 10, Sector 64, Mohali, Punjab-160062, India
| | - Nityasagar Jena
- Institute of Nano Science and Technology, Phase 10, Sector 64, Mohali, Punjab-160062, India
| | - Raihan Ahammed
- Institute of Nano Science and Technology, Phase 10, Sector 64, Mohali, Punjab-160062, India
| | - Abir De Sarkar
- Institute of Nano Science and Technology, Phase 10, Sector 64, Mohali, Punjab-160062, India
| |
Collapse
|
19
|
Wang G, Gong L, Li Z, Wang B, Zhang W, Yuan B, Zhou T, Long X, Kuang A. A two-dimensional CdO/CdS heterostructure used for visible light photocatalysis. Phys Chem Chem Phys 2020; 22:9587-9592. [PMID: 32322864 DOI: 10.1039/d0cp00876a] [Citation(s) in RCA: 44] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/18/2022]
Abstract
Based on hybrid density functional calculations, the geometrical and electronic structures of a two-dimensional (2D) CdO/CdS heterostructure (HT) formed by a CdO monolayer (ML) and a CdS ML are investigated. The formation of the CdO/CdS HT is exothermic, and the CdO/CdS HT shows excellent ability for visible light absorption. The CdO/CdS HT with a rotation angle of 0° possesses the characteristics of type-II band alignment and strong built-in electric field across the interface, which boost the photogenerated carrier separation. Besides, the band edge positions of the CdO/CdS HT of 0° are energetically favorable for overall water-splitting processes with the pH scope of 0-3.6. Therefore, the CdO/CdS HT is a promising photocatalyst to split water.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Guangzhao Wang
- Key Laboratory of Micro Nano Optoelectronic Devices and Intelligent Perception Systems, Key Laboratory of Extraordinary Bond Engineering and Advanced Materials Technology of Chongqing, School of Electronic Information Engineering, Yangtze Normal University, Chongqing 408100, China.
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
20
|
Zhang Z, Xie Z, Liu J, Tian Y, Zhang Y, Wei X, Guo T, Ni L, Fan J, Weng Y, Zha Z, Duan L. Band alignment control in a blue phosphorus/C 2N van der Waals heterojunction using an electric field. Phys Chem Chem Phys 2020; 22:5873-5881. [PMID: 32108190 DOI: 10.1039/c9cp06696a] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
Abstract
Well-controlled band engineering of a blue phosphorus/C2N van der Waals (vdW) heterojunction is investigated by density functional theory (DFT) calculations. The heterojunction has a natural type-II band alignment with a direct band gap value of 1.514 eV, which gives the enormous potential for solar cell applications. When the heterojunction is under solar illumination, the photogenerated electron-hole pairs can separate out on the disparate monolayers effectively. It induces the formation of spatially indirect excitons. Furthermore, it is found that the band gap of this heterojunction exhibits approximately linear variation with respect to the perpendicular external electric field. Very interestingly, a band alignment change from type-II to type-I occurs at an applied electric field of -0.2 V Å-1. This characteristic provides an attractive possibility to obtain novel multifunctional devices.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Zhihui Zhang
- School of Materials Science and Engineering, Chang'an University, Xi'an, 710064, China.
| | - Zifeng Xie
- School of Materials Science and Engineering, Chang'an University, Xi'an, 710064, China.
| | - Jian Liu
- School of Physics, Shandong University, Jinan 250100, China
| | - Ye Tian
- Institute of Physics, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100190, China
| | - Yan Zhang
- School of Materials Science and Engineering, Chang'an University, Xi'an, 710064, China.
| | - Xing Wei
- School of Materials Science and Engineering, Chang'an University, Xi'an, 710064, China.
| | - Tingting Guo
- School of Materials Science and Engineering, Chang'an University, Xi'an, 710064, China.
| | - Lei Ni
- School of Materials Science and Engineering, Chang'an University, Xi'an, 710064, China.
| | - Jibin Fan
- School of Materials Science and Engineering, Chang'an University, Xi'an, 710064, China.
| | - Yijun Weng
- School of Materials Science and Engineering, Chang'an University, Xi'an, 710064, China.
| | - Zhengdi Zha
- School of Materials Science and Engineering, Chang'an University, Xi'an, 710064, China.
| | - Li Duan
- School of Materials Science and Engineering, Chang'an University, Xi'an, 710064, China.
| |
Collapse
|
21
|
Xu L, Ma Z, Li Q, Chen T, Peng B, Zeng J, Zhang Y, Luo KW, Wang LL, Shuai C. 2D layered SiC/C2N van der Waals type-II heterostructure: a visible-light-driven photocatalyst for water splitting. NEW J CHEM 2020. [DOI: 10.1039/d0nj02877k] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/17/2023]
Abstract
2D layered SiC/C2N type-II heterostructure is an effective photocatalyst for hydrogen production from water splitting by visible light.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Liang Xu
- Energy Materials Computing Center, Jiangxi University of Science and Technology
- Nanchang 330013
- China
- School of Physics and Electronics
- Hunan University
| | - Zongle Ma
- Energy Materials Computing Center, Jiangxi University of Science and Technology
- Nanchang 330013
- China
| | - Quan Li
- Energy Materials Computing Center, Jiangxi University of Science and Technology
- Nanchang 330013
- China
- School of Physics and Electronics
- Hunan University
| | - Tong Chen
- Energy Materials Computing Center, Jiangxi University of Science and Technology
- Nanchang 330013
- China
- School of Physics and Electronics
- Hunan University
| | - Bojun Peng
- Energy Materials Computing Center, Jiangxi University of Science and Technology
- Nanchang 330013
- China
| | - Jian Zeng
- Energy Materials Computing Center, Jiangxi University of Science and Technology
- Nanchang 330013
- China
| | - Yingbin Zhang
- Energy Materials Computing Center, Jiangxi University of Science and Technology
- Nanchang 330013
- China
| | - Kai-Wu Luo
- Physical and Electronic Engineering Department
- Tongren University
- Tongren 554300
- China
| | - Ling-Ling Wang
- School of Physics and Electronics
- Hunan University
- Changsha 410082
- China
| | - Cijun Shuai
- Energy Materials Computing Center, Jiangxi University of Science and Technology
- Nanchang 330013
- China
- State Key Laboratory of High Performance Complex Manufacturing
- College of Mechanical and Electrical Engineering
| |
Collapse
|
22
|
Li XH, Wang BJ, Li H, Yang XF, Zhao RQ, Jia XT, Ke SH. Two-dimensional layered Janus-In2SeTe/C2N van der Waals heterostructures for photocatalysis and photovoltaics: first-principles calculations. NEW J CHEM 2020. [DOI: 10.1039/d0nj03296d] [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
Through DFT calculations, Janus-In2SeTe/C2N heterostructures are found to have great potential applications in the fields of clean and sustainable energy.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Xiao-Hua Li
- School of Physics and Electronic Information Engineering
- Henan Polytechnic University
- Jiaozuo 454000
- China
| | - Bao-Ji Wang
- School of Physics and Electronic Information Engineering
- Henan Polytechnic University
- Jiaozuo 454000
- China
| | - Hui Li
- School of Physics and Electronic Information Engineering
- Henan Polytechnic University
- Jiaozuo 454000
- China
| | - Xue-Feng Yang
- School of Physics and Electronic Information Engineering
- Henan Polytechnic University
- Jiaozuo 454000
- China
| | - Rui-Qi Zhao
- School of Materials Science and Engineering
- Henan Polytechnic University
- Jiaozuo 454000
- China
| | - Xing-Tao Jia
- School of Physics and Electronic Information Engineering
- Henan Polytechnic University
- Jiaozuo 454000
- China
| | - San-Huang Ke
- MOE Key Labortoray of Microstructured Materials
- School of Physics Science and Engineering
- Tongji University
- Shanghai
- China
| |
Collapse
|
23
|
Zhou H, Cai W, Li J, Liu X, Xiong W, Zhou Y, Xu Z, Wang B, Ye C. C 2N/BlueP van der Waals hetero-structure: an efficient photocatalytic water splitting 2D material. Phys Chem Chem Phys 2019; 22:1485-1492. [PMID: 31868185 DOI: 10.1039/c9cp05361a] [Citation(s) in RCA: 28] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/21/2022]
Abstract
Constructing van der Waals (vdW) hetero-structures is an effective and feasible method to enhance two-dimensional (2D) materials with desired properties and to extend the application of the original materials. In this work, we establish a C2N/BlueP vdW hetero-structure and explore its photocatalytic water splitting performance by investigating the electronic structure, band edge alignment, charge transfer, optical absorption and strain response based on the density functional theory (DFT) method. Numerical results indicate that the C2N/BlueP hetero-structure possesses a proper direct bandgap and intrinsic type-II band alignment, which are beneficial to the space separation of photo-generated electron-hole pairs. The optical absorption of the hetero-structures is enhanced from the visible to ultraviolet light region compared with those of both individual monolayers. More importantly, the valence band maximum (VBM) is lower than the oxidation potential of water, and the conduction band minimum (CBM) is higher than the reduction potential of water, which indicates the proper photocatalytic potential for water splitting of the C2N/BlueP hetero-structure. By applying a small vertical pressure perpendicular to the hetero-structure with roughly 6% interlayer compression, both the band alignment and the optical absorption can be improved, which gives better performance of photocatalytic water splitting for the C2N/BlueP hetero-structure.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Hao Zhou
- Shenzhen Key Laboratory of Advanced Thin Films and Applications, College of Physics and Optoelectronic Engineering, Shenzhen University, Shenzhen, 518060, China. and Faculty of Physics and Electronic Science, Hubei University, Hubei Key Laboratory of Ferro & Piezoelectric Materials and Devices, Hubei Key Laboratory of Applied Mathematics, Wuhan 430062, China.
| | - Weishan Cai
- Shenzhen Key Laboratory of Advanced Thin Films and Applications, College of Physics and Optoelectronic Engineering, Shenzhen University, Shenzhen, 518060, China.
| | - Jianwei Li
- Shenzhen Key Laboratory of Advanced Thin Films and Applications, College of Physics and Optoelectronic Engineering, Shenzhen University, Shenzhen, 518060, China.
| | - Xinyi Liu
- Faculty of Physics and Electronic Science, Hubei University, Hubei Key Laboratory of Ferro & Piezoelectric Materials and Devices, Hubei Key Laboratory of Applied Mathematics, Wuhan 430062, China.
| | - Wen Xiong
- Faculty of Physics and Electronic Science, Hubei University, Hubei Key Laboratory of Ferro & Piezoelectric Materials and Devices, Hubei Key Laboratory of Applied Mathematics, Wuhan 430062, China.
| | - Yi Zhou
- Faculty of Physics and Electronic Science, Hubei University, Hubei Key Laboratory of Ferro & Piezoelectric Materials and Devices, Hubei Key Laboratory of Applied Mathematics, Wuhan 430062, China.
| | - Zhong Xu
- Faculty of Physics and Electronic Science, Hubei University, Hubei Key Laboratory of Ferro & Piezoelectric Materials and Devices, Hubei Key Laboratory of Applied Mathematics, Wuhan 430062, China.
| | - Bin Wang
- Shenzhen Key Laboratory of Advanced Thin Films and Applications, College of Physics and Optoelectronic Engineering, Shenzhen University, Shenzhen, 518060, China. and Center for Quantum Computing, Peng Cheng Laboratory, Shenzhen 518060, China
| | - Cong Ye
- Faculty of Physics and Electronic Science, Hubei University, Hubei Key Laboratory of Ferro & Piezoelectric Materials and Devices, Hubei Key Laboratory of Applied Mathematics, Wuhan 430062, China.
| |
Collapse
|
24
|
Wang G, Zhao W, Zhong M, Li Y, Xiao S, Dang S, Li C, Long X, Zhang W. Rotational design of BP/XY 2 (X = Mo, W; Y = S, Se) composites for overall photocatalytic water-splitting. JOURNAL OF PHYSICS. CONDENSED MATTER : AN INSTITUTE OF PHYSICS JOURNAL 2019; 31:465002. [PMID: 31425148 DOI: 10.1088/1361-648x/ab33c3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/10/2023]
Abstract
Photocatalytic water-splitting for hydrogen generation is a promising way to solve the energy crisis, yet the design of efficient photocatalysts is still a challenge. By utilization of first principles calculations, we predict the photocatalytic properties of monolayer boron phosphide (BP) based BP/XY2 (X = Mo, W; Y = S, Se) composites of different rotated configurations. Our results suggest that the BP/XY2 composites can be stably formed, and the narrowed bandgaps ensure these composites are suitable for absorbing visible light. The bandgaps and band edge positions are slightly affected by the rotation angles. The BP/MoS2, BP/MoSe2, and BP/WSe2 are type II heterostructures. Furthermore, the transferred charge from BP to XY2 layers leads to the formation of electric fields, which efficiently separate the photoinduced carriers. The band alignments of BP/MoS2, BP/MoS2, BP/MoSe2, and BP/WSe2 satisfy the requirements of overall water-splitting within the pH scope of 3.6-7.9, 6.8-7.9, 4.0-8.0, and 8.7-8.8. This work will provide valuable insight for designing efficient water-splitting photocatalysts.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Guangzhao Wang
- School of Electronic Information Engineering, Key Laboratory of Extraordinary Bond Engineering and Advanced Materials Technology of Chongqing, Yangtze Normal University, Chongqing 408100, People's Republic of China
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
25
|
Tian X, Xuan X, Yu M, Mu Y, Lu HG, Zhang Z, Li SD. Predicting two-dimensional semiconducting boron carbides. NANOSCALE 2019; 11:11099-11106. [PMID: 31165833 DOI: 10.1039/c9nr02681a] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/09/2023]
Abstract
Carbon and boron can mix to form numerous two-dimensional (2D) compounds with strong covalent bonds, yet very few possess a bandgap for functional applications. Motivated by the structural similarity between graphene and recently synthesized borophene, we propose a new family of semiconducting boron carbide monolayers composed of B4C3 pyramids and carbon hexagons, denoted as (B4C3)m(C6)n (m, n are integers) by means of the global minimum search method augmented with first-principles calculations. These monolayers are isoelectronic to graphene yet exhibit increased bandgaps with decreasing n/m, due to the enhanced localization of boron multicenter bonding states as a consequence of the electronic transfer from boron to carbon. In particular, the B4C3 monolayer is even more stable than the previously synthesized BC3 monolayer and has a direct bandgap of 2.73 eV, with the promise for applications in optical catalysis and optoelectronics. These results are likely to inform the on-going effort on the design of semiconducting 2D materials based on other light elements.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Xinxin Tian
- Institute of Molecular Science, Key Laboratory of Materials for Energy Conversion and Storage of Shanxi Province, Shanxi University, Taiyuan 030006, P. R. China.
| | - Xiaoyu Xuan
- State Key Laboratory of Mechanics and Control of Mechanical Structures, Key Laboratory for Intelligent Nano Materials and Devices of Ministry of Education and Institute of Nano Science, Nanjing University of Aeronautics and Astronautics, Nanjing 210016, China.
| | - Meng Yu
- School of chemistry and chemical engineering, Yulin University, Yulin, 719000, P. R. China
| | - Yuewen Mu
- Institute of Molecular Science, Key Laboratory of Materials for Energy Conversion and Storage of Shanxi Province, Shanxi University, Taiyuan 030006, P. R. China.
| | - Hai-Gang Lu
- Institute of Molecular Science, Key Laboratory of Materials for Energy Conversion and Storage of Shanxi Province, Shanxi University, Taiyuan 030006, P. R. China.
| | - Zhuhua Zhang
- State Key Laboratory of Mechanics and Control of Mechanical Structures, Key Laboratory for Intelligent Nano Materials and Devices of Ministry of Education and Institute of Nano Science, Nanjing University of Aeronautics and Astronautics, Nanjing 210016, China.
| | - Si-Dian Li
- Institute of Molecular Science, Key Laboratory of Materials for Energy Conversion and Storage of Shanxi Province, Shanxi University, Taiyuan 030006, P. R. China.
| |
Collapse
|
26
|
Zhang JR, Deng XZ, Gao B, Chen L, Au CT, Li K, Yin SF, Cai MQ. Theoretical study on the intrinsic properties of In2Se3/MoS2 as a photocatalyst driven by near-infrared, visible and ultraviolet light. Catal Sci Technol 2019. [DOI: 10.1039/c9cy00997c] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
Two-dimensional photocatalysts with full optical absorption have attracted widespread attention for water splitting and pollutant degradation, but only few single materials can meet this criterion.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Jin-Rong Zhang
- College of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering
- Hunan University
- Changsha 410082
- China
| | - Xi-Zi Deng
- Key Laboratory for Micro/Nano Optoelectronic Devices of Ministry of Education & Hunan Provincial Key Laboratory of Low-Dimensional Structural Physics and Devices
- School of Physics and Electronics
- Hunan University
- Changsha 410082
- China
| | - Bin Gao
- College of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering
- Hunan University
- Changsha 410082
- China
| | - Lang Chen
- College of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering
- Hunan University
- Changsha 410082
- China
| | - Chak-Tong Au
- College of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering
- Hunan University
- Changsha 410082
- China
| | - Kenli Li
- School of Computer and communication
- Hunan University
- Changsha 410082
- China
| | - Shuang-Feng Yin
- College of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering
- Hunan University
- Changsha 410082
- China
| | - Meng-Qiu Cai
- Key Laboratory for Micro/Nano Optoelectronic Devices of Ministry of Education & Hunan Provincial Key Laboratory of Low-Dimensional Structural Physics and Devices
- School of Physics and Electronics
- Hunan University
- Changsha 410082
- China
| |
Collapse
|
27
|
Nafday D, Fang H, Jena P, Saha-Dasgupta T. Boronated holey graphene: a case of 2D ferromagnetic metal. Phys Chem Chem Phys 2019; 21:21128-21135. [DOI: 10.1039/c9cp02936b] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/01/2023]
Abstract
In search of new candidates for two-dimensional ferromagnets, we consider boronated monolayer holey graphene (C2B), akin to recently synthesized and extensively studied nitrogenated monolayer holey graphene (C2N).
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Dhani Nafday
- School of Mathematical and Computational Sciences
- Indian Association for the Cultivation of Science
- Kolkata 700 032
- India
| | - Hong Fang
- Department of Physics
- Virginia Commonwealth University
- Richmond
- USA
| | - Puru Jena
- Department of Physics
- Virginia Commonwealth University
- Richmond
- USA
| | - Tanusri Saha-Dasgupta
- School of Mathematical and Computational Sciences
- Indian Association for the Cultivation of Science
- Kolkata 700 032
- India
- Department of Condensed Matter Physics and Materials Science
| |
Collapse
|
28
|
Vo DD, Vu TV, Hieu NV, Hieu NN, Phuc HV, Binh NTT, Phuong LTT, Idrees M, Amin B, Nguyen CV. Band alignment and optical features in Janus-MoSeTe/X(OH)2 (X = Ca, Mg) van der Waals heterostructures. Phys Chem Chem Phys 2019; 21:25849-25858. [DOI: 10.1039/c9cp06019g] [Citation(s) in RCA: 37] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
van der Waals heterostructures can be effectively used to enhance the electronic and optical properties and extend the application range of two-dimensional materials.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Dat D. Vo
- Division of Computational Physics
- Institute for Computational Science
- Ton Duc Thang University
- Ho Chi Minh City
- Vietnam
| | - Tuan V. Vu
- Division of Computational Physics
- Institute for Computational Science
- Ton Duc Thang University
- Ho Chi Minh City
- Vietnam
| | - Nguyen V. Hieu
- Department of Physics
- University of Education
- The University of Da Nang
- Vietnam
| | - Nguyen N. Hieu
- Institute of Research and Development
- Duy Tan University
- Da Nang 550000
- Vietnam
| | - Huynh V. Phuc
- Division of Theoretical Physics
- Dong Thap University
- Cao Lanh 870000
- Vietnam
| | - Nguyen T. T. Binh
- Institute of Research and Development
- Duy Tan University
- Da Nang 550000
- Vietnam
| | - Le T. T. Phuong
- Department of Physics
- University of Education
- Hue University
- Hue
- Vietnam
| | - M. Idrees
- Department of Physics
- Hazara University
- Mansehra 21300
- Pakistan
| | - B. Amin
- Department of Physics
- Abbottabad University of Science and Technology
- Abbottabad 22010
- Pakistan
| | - Chuong V. Nguyen
- Department of Materials Science and Engineering
- Le Quy Don Technical University
- Ha Noi 100000
- Vietnam
| |
Collapse
|
29
|
Li XH, Wang BJ, Cai XL, Yu WY, Zhu YY, Li FY, Fan RX, Zhang YS, Ke SH. Strain-Tunable Electronic Properties and Band Alignments in GaTe/C 2N Heterostructure: a First-Principles Calculation. NANOSCALE RESEARCH LETTERS 2018; 13:300. [PMID: 30259233 PMCID: PMC6158146 DOI: 10.1186/s11671-018-2708-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/10/2018] [Accepted: 09/04/2018] [Indexed: 06/08/2023]
Abstract
Recently, GaTe and C2N monolayers have been successfully synthesized and show fascinating electronic and optical properties. Such hybrid of GaTe with C2N may induce new novel physical properties. In this work, we perform ab initio simulations on the structural, electronic, and optical properties of the GaTe/C2N van der Waals (vdW) heterostructure. Our calculations show that the GaTe/C2N vdW heterostructure is an indirect-gap semiconductor with type-II band alignment, facilitating an effective separation of photogenerated carriers. Intriguingly, it also presents enhanced visible-UV light absorption compared to its components and can be tailored to be a good photocatalyst for water splitting at certain pH by applying vertical strains. Further, we explore specifically the adsorption and decomposition of water molecules on the surface of C2N layer in the heterostructure and the subsequent formation of hydrogen, which reveals the mechanism of photocatalytic hydrogen production on the 2D GaTe/C2N heterostructure. Moreover, it is found that in-plane biaxial strains can induce indirect-direct-indirect, semiconductor-metal, and type II to type I or type III transitions. These interesting results make the GaTe/C2N vdW heterostructure a promising candidate for applications in next generation of multifunctional optoelectronic devices.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Xiao-Huan Li
- School of Physics and Electronic Information Engineering, Henan Polytechnic University, 2001 Shiji Road, Jiaozuo, 454000, China
| | - Bao-Ji Wang
- School of Physics and Electronic Information Engineering, Henan Polytechnic University, 2001 Shiji Road, Jiaozuo, 454000, China.
| | - Xiao-Lin Cai
- School of Physics and Electronic Information Engineering, Henan Polytechnic University, 2001 Shiji Road, Jiaozuo, 454000, China
| | - Wei-Yang Yu
- School of Physics and Electronic Information Engineering, Henan Polytechnic University, 2001 Shiji Road, Jiaozuo, 454000, China
| | - Ying-Ying Zhu
- School of Physics and Electronic Information Engineering, Henan Polytechnic University, 2001 Shiji Road, Jiaozuo, 454000, China
| | - Feng-Yun Li
- School of Physics and Electronic Information Engineering, Henan Polytechnic University, 2001 Shiji Road, Jiaozuo, 454000, China
| | - Rui-Xia Fan
- School of Physics and Electronic Information Engineering, Henan Polytechnic University, 2001 Shiji Road, Jiaozuo, 454000, China
| | - Yan-Song Zhang
- School of Physics and Electronic Information Engineering, Henan Polytechnic University, 2001 Shiji Road, Jiaozuo, 454000, China
| | - San-Huang Ke
- MOE Key Labortoray of Microstructured Materials, School of Physics Science and Engineering, Tongji University, 1239 Siping Road, Shanghai, 200092, China.
| |
Collapse
|
30
|
Hou Y, Chu F, Ma S, Hu Y, Hu W, Gui Z. Rapid Synthesis of Oxygen-Rich Covalent C 2N (CNO) Nanosheets by Sacrifice of HKUST-1: Advanced Metal-Free Nanofillers for Polymers. ACS APPLIED MATERIALS & INTERFACES 2018; 10:32688-32697. [PMID: 30178652 DOI: 10.1021/acsami.8b11299] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/08/2023]
Abstract
A covalent oxygen-rich C2N (CNO) network derived from metal-organic framework (HKUST-1) was innovatively synthesized by a rapid and green microwave irradiation method. This method can produce CNO multilayers efficiently, which paves a way for practical application of the nanosheets. Structural characterization and synthesis processes of CNO nanosheets were investigated to further understand the key role of HKUST-1. The as-prepared CNO has a layered feature, which theoretically favors to improve flame retardancy and mechanical performance of polymers. Desirable results were obtained as expected: the fire safety, antitensile, and impact resistance of polylactic acid (PLA) were prominently enhanced after adding CNO nanosheets, which can be attributed to the excellent dispersion and compatibility. PLA/CNO nanocomposite was self-distinguished at 2 wt % content of CNO, whereas the tensile strength was increased more than 36% compared with that of pure PLA, as well as the impact strength. This work broadens the application fields of CNO and endows it a possibility of actual application.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Yanbei Hou
- State Key Laboratory of Fire Science , University of Science and Technology of China , Hefei , Anhui 230026 , P. R. China
| | - Fukai Chu
- State Key Laboratory of Fire Science , University of Science and Technology of China , Hefei , Anhui 230026 , P. R. China
| | - Shicong Ma
- State Key Laboratory of Fire Science , University of Science and Technology of China , Hefei , Anhui 230026 , P. R. China
| | - Yuan Hu
- State Key Laboratory of Fire Science , University of Science and Technology of China , Hefei , Anhui 230026 , P. R. China
| | - Weizhao Hu
- State Key Laboratory of Fire Science , University of Science and Technology of China , Hefei , Anhui 230026 , P. R. China
| | - Zhou Gui
- State Key Laboratory of Fire Science , University of Science and Technology of China , Hefei , Anhui 230026 , P. R. China
| |
Collapse
|
31
|
Yu S, Rao YC, Wu HH, Duan XM. C2N: an excellent catalyst for the hydrogen evolution reaction. Phys Chem Chem Phys 2018; 20:27970-27974. [DOI: 10.1039/c8cp05022h] [Citation(s) in RCA: 28] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/21/2022]
Abstract
Based on first-principles calculations, we study the hydrogen evolution reaction (HER) on metal-free C2N and make efforts to improve its catalytic performance.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Song Yu
- Department of Physics
- Faculty of Science
- Ningbo University
- Ningbo-315211
- P. R. China
| | - Yong-Chao Rao
- Department of Physics
- Faculty of Science
- Ningbo University
- Ningbo-315211
- P. R. China
| | - Hong-Hui Wu
- Department of Chemistry
- University of Nebraska-Lincoln
- Lincoln
- USA
| | - Xiang-Mei Duan
- Department of Physics
- Faculty of Science
- Ningbo University
- Ningbo-315211
- P. R. China
| |
Collapse
|
32
|
Wang B, Luo X, Chang J, Chen X, Yuan H, Chen H. Efficient charge separation and visible-light response in bilayer HfS2-based van der Waals heterostructures. RSC Adv 2018; 8:18889-18895. [PMID: 35539676 PMCID: PMC9080604 DOI: 10.1039/c8ra03047b] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/09/2018] [Accepted: 04/27/2018] [Indexed: 01/20/2023] Open
Abstract
Two-dimensional (2D) hafnium disulfide (HfS2) has been synthesized and is expected to be a promising candidate for photovoltaic applications, and at the same time the hexagonal BN sheet (h-BN) and graphene-like C3N4 sheet (g-C3N4) have also been fabricated and are expected to be applied in photocatalysis. In this work, we employ hybrid density functional theory to investigate HfS2-based van der Waals (vdW) heterojunctions for highly efficient photovoltaic and photocatalytic applications. HfS2/h-BN and HfS2/g-C3N4 heterostructures with direct bandgaps and efficient charge separation are both typical type-II semiconductors and have potential as photovoltaic structures for solar power. Moreover, compared with h-BN and g-C3N4 single-layers, HfS2/h-BN heterostructures with 6% tensile strain and HfS2/g-C3N4 heterostructures with 9% tensile strain have moderate bandgaps, whose optical absorption is obviously enhanced in the ultraviolet-visible (UV-VIS) light range and whose bandedges are suitable for photocatalytic water splitting. HfS2/h-BN heterostructures with 6% applied strain, being different from HfS2/g-C3N4 heterostructures with 9% strain, possess a direct bandgap and show complete separation of the photoinduced electron–hole pairs. Thus the HfS2/h-BN heterojunction with 6% strain has bright prospects for use in visible light photocatalytic water splitting to produce hydrogen. In this work, we employ hybrid density functional theory to investigate HfS2-based van der Waals (vdW) heterojunctions for highly efficient photovoltaic and photocatalytic applications.![]()
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Biao Wang
- School of Physical Science and Technology
- Southwest University
- Chongqing 400715
- People’s Republic of China
| | - Xukai Luo
- School of Physical Science and Technology
- Southwest University
- Chongqing 400715
- People’s Republic of China
| | - Junli Chang
- School of Physical Science and Technology
- Southwest University
- Chongqing 400715
- People’s Republic of China
| | - Xiaorui Chen
- School of Physical Science and Technology
- Southwest University
- Chongqing 400715
- People’s Republic of China
| | - Hongkuan Yuan
- School of Physical Science and Technology
- Southwest University
- Chongqing 400715
- People’s Republic of China
| | - Hong Chen
- School of Physical Science and Technology
- Southwest University
- Chongqing 400715
- People’s Republic of China
- Key Laboratory of Luminescent and Real-Time Analytical Chemistry
| |
Collapse
|