Hematite photoanodes for water splitting from directed assembly of Prussian blue onto CuO–Sb2O5–SnO2 ceramics

Abstract

We report the controlled layer-by-layer growth by the directed assembly of Prussian blue to form (via thermolysis) a functional hematite coating on the grain surfaces of porous CuO–Sb₂O₅–SnO₂ ceramics. The impact of the hematite coating on the physicochemical properties of the ceramics is demonstrated through Raman spectroscopy, and photoelectric and electrochemical impedance measurements. The directed assembly of ionic layers described here is a promising approach for introducing thin film deposits into porous structures and modifying/tuning the photoelectrochemical properties of SnO₂-based ceramic materials.