Photoelectrochemical Technology for Solar Fuel: Green Hydrogen, Carbon Dioxide Capture, and Ammonia Production

Abstract

Photoelectrochemical (PEC) technology is a promising strategy that can directly convert sunlight into chemical energy. Direct solar water splitting through the PEC process is a desirable method for green hydrogen (H2) production. This technology has also the potential to capture CO2 and convert it into fuels using sunlight and water, besides converting N2 and H2O to produce ammonia (NH3), which acts as transportable H2 storage. The cracking of NH3 to produce H2 can also be accomplished using PEC technology. Despite improved PEC performance having been shown, stability, efficiency, and scalability issues still need to be resolved. Even so, PEC technology has much potential as a clean and sustainable solution for addressing global energy and environmental challenges.