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Photosensitization Efficiency Modulation of Atomically Precise Silver Nanoclusters for Photoelectrocatalysis
Zhi-Quan Wei1, Fang-Xing Xiao1
1College of Materials Science and Engineering, Fuzhou University, New Campus, Fuzhou City, Fujian Province 350108, China.
Inorganic Chemistry
|March 31, 2023
Summary
Atomically precise silver nanoclusters (Ag NCs) show promise as light-harvesting antennas for solar energy conversion. This study demonstrates their enhanced photoelectrochemical water-splitting performance by optimizing their atomic structure and charge transfer.
Area of Science:
- Materials Science
- Nanotechnology
- Photochemistry
Background:
- Atomically precise metal nanoclusters (NCs) are promising for solar energy conversion.
- Silver nanoclusters (Ag NCs) are underexplored as light-harvesting antennas.
- The charge transfer mechanism in Ag NCs remains unclear.
Purpose of the Study:
- To demonstrate the photosensitization effect of Ag NCs in photoelectrochemical (PEC) water splitting.
- To evaluate the correlation between photosensitization efficiency and atomic architecture.
- To develop Ag NC-based photoanodes for enhanced solar energy conversion.
Main Methods:
- Fabrication of tailor-made l-glutathione (GSH)-capped Ag NCs with varying atomic structures.
- Deposition of Ag NCs onto metal oxide (MO) substrates (TiO2, WO3, Fe2O3) via self-assembly.
- Evaluation of PEC water-splitting performance and charge transfer dynamics.
Main Results:
- Self-assembled MOs/Ag NC heterostructures exhibited significantly enhanced PEC water oxidation under visible light.
- Efficient charge transfer from Ag NCs to the MO substrate was observed.
- Prolonged charge carrier lifetime in Ag NCs was achieved.
Conclusions:
- Atomically precise Ag NCs are effective photosensitizers for solar water splitting.
- Controlling atomic architecture and interfacial charge transfer is crucial for optimizing performance.
- This work paves the way for generic application of metal NCs in solar energy conversion.
