Colloidal Nanoparticle Based Photocathodes for Solar Driven Overall Water Splitting

Solar-driven water splitting into hydrogen and oxygen can provide a source of clean and renewable fuel. However, systems that are sufficiently stable and efficient for practical use have not been realized yet. Two approaches have been developed for the design of artificial photosynthesis devices: photocatalysis via molecular or semiconductor particle-based species dispersed in solution, and photoelectrochemical (PEC) cells. Each approach offers different advantages, alongside some disadvantages. In the course of the work presented we strived to combine the two methods and harness the high degree of control over material characteristics that is offered by colloidal photocatalyst synthesis to benefit the construction of an improved PEC device.

In particular, we prepared and characterized photocathodes for light driven hydrogen evolution from water, constructed of CdSe@CdS seeded rods that are deposited on porous p-type NiO substrate. We will present and discuss the effect of different parameters, such as substrate morphology, sensitizer-substrate linking molecules and metal co-catalyst deposition, on the device’s performance.

This work presents the preparation and characterization of photocathodes for light driven hydrogen evolution from water, constructed of CdSe@CdS seeded rod deposited on porous p-type NiO substrate. We examine the effect of different parameters, such as substrate morphology, sensitizer-substrate linking molecules and metal co-catalyst deposition on the device’s performance.

The ability to harness the high degree of control over the material characteristics offered by photocatalytic schemes based on colloidal nanocrystals, may benefit the construction of efficient devices for renewable solar-to-fuel energy conversion.