CuOx functionalized silicon photoanodes for efficient photoelectrochemical water splitting devices

Identifier:  TFM:129

Handle: https://hdl.handle.net/20.500.11797/TFM129

Authors:  Shi, Yuanyuan

Abstract:
Photoelectrochemical (PEC) water splitting using solar light to produce clean fuels (hydrogen) is a promising renewable source to fulfill the raising global energy demands and overcome environmental problems. This technology is attractive because it can provide equal or even more energy at a lower cost than other kinds of solar cells, and it solves the problems of sunlight intermittence and location dependency, as the energy can be stored and transported in the form of chemical bonds. In this field, the development of active, stable and cost-effective photoelectrocatalysts or photoelectrodes is essential to ensure the good function of water splitting cells. Here a highly active CuOx/Cu protected silicon photoanode has been prepared, with onset potential at 0.51 V vs. SCE in 0.2 M borate buffer (pH 9). The electrode is stable showing a constant current density of 0.8 mA/cm2 at 0.59 V vs. SCE for 1 hour under illumination of simulated 1-sun. These findings may have important implications in the advance of this technology, as they provide a cost-effective solution that shows excellent performance