Bias-free solar hydrogen production at 19.8 mA cm−2 using perovskite photocathode and lignocellulosic biomass

Abstract

Solar hydrogen production is one of the ultimate technologies needed to realize a carbon-neutral, sustainable society. However, an energy-intensive water oxidation half-reaction together with the poor performance of conventional inorganic photocatalysts have been big hurdles for practical solar hydrogen production. Here we present a photoelectrochemical cell with a record high photocurrent density of 19.8 mA cm−2 for hydrogen production by utilizing a high-performance organic–inorganic halide perovskite as a panchromatic absorber and lignocellulosic biomass as an alternative source of electrons working at lower potentials. In addition, value-added chemicals such as vanillin and acetovanillone are produced via the selective depolymerization of lignin in lignocellulosic biomass while cellulose remains close to intact for further utilization. This study paves the way to improve solar hydrogen productivity and simultaneously realize the effective use of lignocellulosic biomass.

Bias-Free Photoelectrochemical H2O2 Production and Its In Situ Applications

“…67,86,87 This strategy exhibited not only a high photocurrent but also a stable photocurrent for water splitting. 67,86,87 A similar strategy can be applied for photoelectrochemical H 2 O 2 production. In addition, a stable sealant will also need to be found.…”

Tandem cells for unbiased photoelectrochemical water splitting

“…In addition, the use of biomass conversion in unbiased PEC water splitting cells may require different system designs and components compared to the traditional water splitting, necessitating further research and development in this area. 282–285…”

Sub-10 nm anatase TiO2 nanoparticles for rapid photocatalytic H2 production from lignocellulosic biomass

“…The recycling and reuse of lignocellulosic biomass as an energy resource would help to realize a green and low-carbon economic society. 1–3 The conversion of lignocellulosic biomass to H 2 fuel can be achieved by a thermocatalytic or microbiologic fermentation technique, but these traditional strategies are limited by either additional energy need or low conversion. 4–6 Inspired by the photocatalytic H 2 production half reaction system using an electron donor as a sacrificial reagent, 7–11 the lignocellulosic biomass can be used as an ideal sacrificial reagent owing to its recyclability, high abundance and low cost.…”