Characterizing surface states in hematite nanorod photoanodes, both beneficial and detrimental to solar water splitting efficiency
D. Stǎnescu, Mekan Piriyev, Victoria Villard, Cristian Mocuta, Adrien Besson, Dris Ihiawakrim, Ovidiu Ersen, Jocelyne Leroy, Sorin G. Chiuzbaian, Adam P. Hitchcock, Stefan Stanescu
Abstract
Direct evidence for reductive and oxidative surface states coexisting in hematite nanostructures is given by combined STXM and PEC measurements. The annealing temperature and Ti substitution balance the surface states, driving the PEC activity.
Topics & Concepts
HematiteNanorodNanostructureWater splittingMaterials scienceAnnealing (glass)Surface statesNanotechnologyChemical physicsChemistrySurface (topology)PhotocatalysisMetallurgyCatalysisMathematicsBiochemistryGeometryIron oxide chemistry and applicationsClay minerals and soil interactionsAdvanced Photocatalysis Techniques