Superaerophobic Composite Coating of 2D g-C₃N₄ for Efficient Photo-Assisted Water Splitting

Area of Science:

• Materials Science
• Electrochemistry
• Photocatalysis

Background:

• Photo-assisted electrochemical (PAEC) water splitting offers efficient hydrogen and oxygen generation.
• Catalyst delamination and gas bubble adhesion impede PAEC performance.

Purpose of the Study:

• To develop a robust, bubble-repellent composite coating for enhanced PAEC water splitting.
• To improve catalyst stability and gas evolution efficiency.

Main Methods:

• Incorporating 2D graphitic carbon nitride (g-C3N4) into a superaerophobic coating on nickel foam (NF).
• Evaluating the composite's PAEC performance under simulated solar illumination.

Main Results:

• The composite coating prevented g-C3N4 delamination and facilitated rapid gas bubble detachment.
• Achieved a 51% increase in hydrogen and 44% increase in oxygen production.
• Demonstrated reduced overpotentials and enhanced electrochemically active surface area.

Conclusions:

• The novel composite coating significantly enhances PAEC water splitting stability and efficiency.
• Cooperative effects of photoactivity, photothermal enhancement, and bubble dynamics are crucial.
• This approach offers a stable and energy-efficient method for hydrogen and oxygen production.