Green Hydrogen: Nanostructures Trends On Photoelectrochemical Cells For Solar Water Splitting

by Arlete Apolinário (IFIMUP/FCUP)

Wednesday 27 Nov 2024, 14:00 → 15:00 Portugal

Sala de Conferências (Departamento de Física FCTUC)

The use of solar energy can be crucial in addressing the current energy crisis and environmental issues caused by the depletion and combustion of fossil fuels. Photoelectrochemical cells (PECs) have shown promising results as platforms for solar energy conversion into green hydrogen production via water splitting. [1]. This presentation will describe the preparation of various nanostructures, including nanopores, nanotubes, and nanowires, composed of semiconductor oxides for applications in PEC cells and green hydrogen production via water splitting. Focusing on n-type metal oxides, such as TiO₂, α-Fe₂O₃, and WO₃, recognized for their cost-effectiveness, ease of preparation, and stability, this presentation will explore the realm of nanostructuring as a means to enhance the efficiency of photoelectrodes. Using scalable, low-cost synthesis methods, particularly electrochemical anodization and hydrothermal routes, we aim to create diverse nanostructured photoelectrodes. These structures, varying in geometry from nanopores to nanotubes, nanowires, and nanoplatelets, are designed to significantly enhance photoresponse efficiency [2-6]. The detailed characterization and optimization of these nanostructures aim to increase photoresponse, emphasizing the crucial role of nanostructure morphology and structure in boosting photocurrent density and enhancing photoresponse in PEC applications.

 

[1] Nature, 2001, 414(6861).
[2] Journal of Materials Chemistry A, 2014, 2, 9067-9078.
[3] Journal of Electroanalytical Chemistry 2022, 2023926, 116903.
[4] J. Phys. Chem. C, 2020, 124, 24, 12897–12911.
[5] ACS Applied Energy Materials,  2019, 2 (2), 1040-1050.
[6] ACS  Applied   Materials   &   Interfaces  2024, DOI :10.1021/acsami.4c11729.