Issue 36, 2019

Rapid advances in antimony triselenide photocathodes for solar hydrogen generation

Abstract

One of the paramount challenges for realizing practical solar hydrogen production is the development of a low-cost semiconductor that is suitable for large-area and high-performance photoelectrochemical devices. Antimony triselenide (Sb2Se3) has emerged as a nearly ideal semiconductor material that satisfies nearly all requirements for effectively generating hydrogen using solar energy. In this report, we highlight the extraordinary characteristics of Sb2Se3 relative to the myriad of other emerging semiconductors, in terms of cost, band gap, optoelectronic properties, photocorrosion stability, and processability. Additionally, we discuss recent studies on Sb2Se3 photocathodes with a focus on their intrinsic properties, use of co-catalysts, and top and bottom interface engineering for enhanced performance. Unresolved issues and future research directions will also be discussed briefly. We believe that the rapid advances in Sb2Se3-photocathode water splitting over the past three years suggest a positive outlook for the cost-effective production of solar hydrogen.

Graphical abstract: Rapid advances in antimony triselenide photocathodes for solar hydrogen generation

Article information

Article type
Highlight
Submitted
23 jul 2019
Accepted
25 aug 2019
First published
26 aug 2019

J. Mater. Chem. A, 2019,7, 20467-20477

Rapid advances in antimony triselenide photocathodes for solar hydrogen generation

W. Yang and J. Moon, J. Mater. Chem. A, 2019, 7, 20467 DOI: 10.1039/C9TA07990D

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