Creating an intermediate energy band to boost the photoelectrochemical efficiency of TiO2 for solar-driven hydrogen production

Abstract

The utilization of photoelectrochemical processes for hydrogen generation from water and solar energy offers a promising avenue to replace non-renewable energy sources. Nevertheless, achieving high-performance photoanode electrodes poses a significant challenge. In this study, we present the synthesis cerium and chromium-doped TiO₂ (CeCrTiO₂) is produced through a simple, scalable, and cost-effective hydrothermal method on a fluorine-doped tin oxide (FTO) substrate. the introduction of Ce and Cr impurities is highlighted for its role in creating an impurity band within CeCrTiO₂. This impurity band is instrumental in enhancing the separation and movement of electrons and holes, contributing to the improved performance of CeCrTiO₂ as a photoanode in photoelectrochemical applications. Hence, the photocurrent density value of CeCrTiO₂ is 4.5 times higher than that of bare TiO₂. This suggests that CeCrTiO₂ exhibits improved efficiency in generating a photocurrent when exposed to light, indicating enhanced photoelectrochemical performance. The amount of hydrogen produced by CeCrTiO₂ is noted to be 4.88 times greater than that of bare TiO₂. This highlights the material's effectiveness in harnessing solar energy to drive the water-splitting reaction, leading to a higher yield of hydrogen gas. The synthesis of CeCrTiO₂ through a hydrothermal method results in a photoanode with significantly enhanced performance, positioning it as a promising candidate for advancing photoelectrochemical processes aimed at replacing non-renewable energy sources.