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A Visible Light-Responsive TiO2 Photocathode Achieved by a Rh Dopant
Yecheng Tang1, Kaiwei Liu1, Jiaming Zhang1
1School of Physical Science and Technology, ShanghaiTech University, Shanghai 201210, P. R. China.
The Journal of Physical Chemistry Letters
|June 5, 2024
Summary
Rhodium doping transforms titanium dioxide into an efficient p-type photocathode for solar water splitting. This Rh-doped material exhibits enhanced visible light absorption and improved charge transport for solar energy conversion.
Area of Science:
- Materials Science
- Photocatalysis
- Renewable Energy
Background:
- Developing efficient photocathodes for solar water splitting is crucial for renewable energy.
- Titanium dioxide (TiO2) is a common material, but its efficiency needs improvement.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate Rhodium (Rh) doping in rutile TiO2 to create a stable and efficient photocathode.
- To understand the effect of Rh doping on TiO2's electronic and optical properties for solar water splitting.
Main Methods:
- Rhodium doping of rutile TiO2.
- Characterization using Mott-Schottky analysis and Kelvin probe force microscopy.
- Photoelectrochemical and physical analyses to study doping mechanisms and performance.
Main Results:
- Rh doping shifted TiO2 from n-type to p-type semiconductor behavior.
- Visible light absorption extended to 640 nm with an onset potential of 0.9 V vs. RHE.
- Doping concentration influenced the Rh oxidation state (Rh3+ vs. Rh4+), affecting light absorption and charge transport.
Conclusions:
- Rh doping effectively enhances TiO2's suitability as a photocathode for solar water splitting.
- The study elucidates the role of Rh dopants in tuning TiO2's photoelectrochemical properties.
- This provides a promising material for advancing solar energy conversion technologies.
