Multi-Layered Semiconductor Thin Films Arranged in a p/p Z-scheme Tandem Device for Sustainable Water Splitting in the Absence of Sacrificial Reagents
Poster Number
12
Session Title
Poster Session 1
College
College of Arts and Sciences
Department
Chemistry, Physics, Geology, & the Environment
Abstract
A multi-layered, thin film device mimicking a p/p heterojunction z-scheme electrode has been prepared as a photocatalyst for water splitting. Stacked thin films of doped MIIxFe2-xO3-(x-2) (MII = Zn2+ or Cu2+) and CuIxCd1-xS1-(x/2), referred to as p-Fe2O3 and p-CdS, are deposited onto transparent conductive substrates to act as oxygen and hydrogen evolving catalysts (OEC/HEC), respectively. Prior to addition of the OEC and HEC layers, the substrate surface is modified by addition of an ultrathin film of a metal oxide (MOx) which is functionalized with Au nanoparticles. Afterwards, the HEC is sputtered with Pt. The resulting working electrode is a MOx/Au/p-Fe2O3/p-CdS/Pt composite. Structural, morphological, and electrochemical characterizations have been performed. Under suitable conditions and with proper counter electrodes, these devices may show promise as tandem cells for water splitting without sacrificial reagents.
Start Date
15-4-2022 12:00 PM
Multi-Layered Semiconductor Thin Films Arranged in a p/p Z-scheme Tandem Device for Sustainable Water Splitting in the Absence of Sacrificial Reagents
A multi-layered, thin film device mimicking a p/p heterojunction z-scheme electrode has been prepared as a photocatalyst for water splitting. Stacked thin films of doped MIIxFe2-xO3-(x-2) (MII = Zn2+ or Cu2+) and CuIxCd1-xS1-(x/2), referred to as p-Fe2O3 and p-CdS, are deposited onto transparent conductive substrates to act as oxygen and hydrogen evolving catalysts (OEC/HEC), respectively. Prior to addition of the OEC and HEC layers, the substrate surface is modified by addition of an ultrathin film of a metal oxide (MOx) which is functionalized with Au nanoparticles. Afterwards, the HEC is sputtered with Pt. The resulting working electrode is a MOx/Au/p-Fe2O3/p-CdS/Pt composite. Structural, morphological, and electrochemical characterizations have been performed. Under suitable conditions and with proper counter electrodes, these devices may show promise as tandem cells for water splitting without sacrificial reagents.
