Synthesis and Characterization of a Novel Ternary Hematite Nanocomposites Structure with Fullerene and 2D-Electrochemical Reduced Graphene Oxide for Superior Photoelectrochemical Performance

Abstract

In this study, a novel ternary hematite nanocomposites photoanode structure with superior photoelectrochemical (PEC) performance consisting of fullerene (C60) and 2D‐electrochemical reduced graphene oxide (eRGO) used as the effective surface passivators is developed. The introduction of both the electron scavenging C60 and highly conducting eRGO has mitigated the high interfacial recombination rate of hematite and led to the superior enhancement in PEC performance. UV–vis analysis reveals that the incorporation of C60 and eRGO can provide a stronger light absorption at the visible light (400 nm < λ < 700 nm) and near infrared (IR) region (λ > 700 nm). Through the electrochemical impedance spectroscopy measurements, it can be concluded that the introduction of C60 and eRGO onto hematite photoanode improves electron transfer and collection, reduces charge‐carrier recombination efficiency, and enhances PEC activity. The resultant ternary hematite photoanode structure exhibits 16.8‐fold enhancement in photocurrent density and 0.8‐fold reduction in charge transfer resistance when compared to the bare hematite structure only. This study has shown that the application of C60, 2D‐eRGO, or in combination as a ternary structure provides the plasmonic effect that can enhance the PEC performance in hematite photoanode structure.

Rational Design and Construction of Cocatalysts for Semiconductor‐Based Photo‐Electrochemical Oxygen Evolution: A Comprehensive Review

“…These ultrathin g-C 3 N 4 nanolayers can not only restrain the interfacial charge recombination of BiVO 4 , but also promote the transformation and storage of photogenerated holes for water oxidation. Very recently, a novel ternary hematite photoanode with fullerene and 2D-electrochemical rGO was designed by Phuan et al, [234] as shown in Figure 17d, the introduction of C60 and rGO contributes to a 16.8-fold enhancement in photocurrent density and a 0.8-fold reduction in charge transfer resistance in comparison with the pure hematite photoanode. Under simulated solar irradiation, the photocurrent density of N-CDs@α-Fe 2 O 3 /Ti photoanode shows a 3.4-fold increment with a 280 mV negative shift of the onset potential and better durability compared with that of pristine α-Fe 2 O 3 /Ti.…”

“…Sci. [234] Copyright 2017, Wiley-VCH. a) J-V curves of the bare hematite and eRGO hematite-i nanocomposites.…”

“…d) Schematic illustration of electrodeposition process of hematite nanocomposites photoanodes. Reproduced with permission . Copyright 2017, Wiley‐VCH.…”

“…Other common carbonaceous materials that can be employed as cocatalysts also include CNT, fullerene, etc. Very recently, a novel ternary hematite photoanode with fullerene and 2D‐electrochemical rGO was designed by Phuan et al, as shown in Figure d, the introduction of C60 and rGO contributes to a 16.8‐fold enhancement in photocurrent density and a 0.8‐fold reduction in charge transfer resistance in comparison with the pure hematite photoanode.…”

Advances in Functional Ceramics for Water Splitting: A Comprehensive Review

“…In addition to structural modifications, the influence of surface passivation and nanoparticle decoration on hematite photoanodes has been a subject of interest. Ternary hematite nanocomposite structures with fullerene and 2D-electrochemical reduced graphene oxide have been developed to achieve superior photoelectrochemical performance [57]. Moreover, the influence of the magnetic field and nanoparticle concentration on the thin film colloidal deposition process of magnetic nanoparticles has been studied to optimize the efficiency of hematite photoanodes [58].…”