Introducing an insulating alumina layer into a molecular photocathode to improve CO2 reduction activity

Abstract

Interfacial engineering with an Al2O3 overlayer enhances visible-light-driven CO2 reduction on p-type NiO photocathodes incorporating Ru(II)-based photosensitizing molecular units. Operando transient absorption spectroscopy reveals that Al2O3 suppresses charge recombination between NiO and the photosensitizer unit, prolonging carrier lifetimes and improving catalytic efficiency.