Open AccessSilicon based photoelectrodes for photoelectrochemical water splitting
Author(s) -
Ronglei Fan,
Zetian Mi,
Mingrong Shen
Publication year - 2019
Publication title -
optics express
Language(s) - English
Resource type - Journals
SCImago Journal Rank - 1.394
H-Index - 271
ISSN - 1094-4087
DOI - 10.1364/oe.27.000a51
Subject(s) - water splitting , materials science , layer (electronics) , silicon , nanotechnology , photoelectrochemical cell , solar energy , catalysis , optoelectronics , energy conversion efficiency , hydrogen production , photocatalysis , chemistry , electrical engineering , electrode , biochemistry , engineering , electrolyte
Solar water splitting using Si photoelectrodes in photoelectrochemical (PEC) cells offers a promising approach to convert sunlight into sustainable hydrogen energy, which has recently received intense research. This review summarizes the recent advances in the development of efficient and stable Si photoelectrodes for solar water splitting. The definition and representation of efficiency and stability for Si photoelectrodes are firstly introduced. We then present several basic strategies for designing highly efficient and stable Si photoelectrodes, including surface textures, protective layer, catalyst loading and the integration of the system. Finally, we highlight the progress that has been made in Si photocathodes and Si photoanodes, respectively, with emphasis on how to integrate Si with protective layer and catalyst.