Hydrogen evolution using palladium sulfide (PdS) nanocorals as photoanodes in aqueous solution

Area of Science:

• Materials Science
• Electrochemistry
• Renewable Energy

Background:

• Palladium sulfide (PdS) nanostructures possess suitable optical and transport properties for photoelectrochemical cells (PECs).
• Previous research suggests PdS as a potential material for hydrogen evolution reactions.

Purpose of the Study:

• To conduct a comprehensive morphological and electrochemical characterization of PdS films.
• To determine the energy level scheme of PdS at the electrolyte-semiconductor interface.
• To evaluate the hydrogen photogeneration rates of PdS in PECs.

Main Methods:

• Electrochemical impedance spectroscopy was used to determine the flatband potential (Vfb) of PdS.
• Morphological characterization techniques were employed.
• Mass spectrometry was utilized to measure continuous photogenerated hydrogen rates.

Main Results:

• The flatband potential of PdS was determined to be -0.65±0.05 V vs Normal Electrode (NHE).
• The energy level scheme confirmed PdS's capability for hydrogen photogeneration in PECs.
• Hydrogen evolution rates reached up to 4.4 μmolH2/h at 0.3 V vs Ag/AgCl under illumination.

Conclusions:

• PdS nanostructures are confirmed as viable photoanodes for hydrogen evolution in PECs.
• The determined energy levels support the application of PdS in photoelectrochemical hydrogen production.
• The study provides quantitative data on hydrogen generation efficiency for PdS.