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- Benedet, Mattia, et al.
(author)
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Efficient photoactivated hydrogen evolution promoted by Cu x O-gCN-TiO 2 -Au (x = 1,2) nanoarchitectures
- 2024
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In: RSC Advances. - 2046-2069. ; 14:10, s. 7221-7228
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Journal article (peer-reviewed)abstract
- In this work, we propose an original and potentially scalable synthetic route for the fabrication of CuxO-gCN-TiO2-Au (x = 1,2) nanoarchitectures, based on Cu foam anodization, graphitic carbon nitride liquid-phase deposition, and TiO2/Au sputtering. A thorough chemico-physical characterization by complementary analytical tools revealed the formation of nanoarchitectures featuring an intimate contact between the system components and a high dispersion of gold nanoparticles. Modulation of single component interplay yielded excellent functional performances in photoactivated hydrogen evolution, corresponding to a photocurrent of ≈−5.7 mA cm−2 at 0.0 V vs. the reversible hydrogen electrode (RHE). These features, along with the very good service life, represent a cornerstone for the conversion of natural resources, as water and largely available sunlight, into added-value solar fuels.
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2. |
- Quesnel, Etienne, et al.
(author)
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Graphene-based technologies for energy applications, challenges and perspectives
- 2015
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In: Current Opinion in Chemical Engineering. - : IOP Publishing. - 2211-3398. ; 2:3, s. 1-16
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Journal article (peer-reviewed)abstract
- Here we report on technology developments implemented into the Graphene Flagship European project for the integration of graphene and graphene-related materials (GRMs) into energy application devices. Many of the technologies investigated so far aim at producing composite materials associating graphene or GRMs with either metal or semiconducting nanocrystals or other carbon nanostructures (e.g., CNT, graphite). These composites can be used favourably as hydrogen storage materials or solar cell absorbers. They can also provide better performing electrodes for fuel cells, batteries, or supercapacitors. For photovoltaic (PV) electrodes, where thin layers and interface engineering are required, surface technologies are preferred. We are using conventional vacuum processes to integrate graphene as well as radically new approaches based on laser irradiation strategies. For each application, the potential of implemented technologies is then presented on the basis of selected experimental and modelling results. It is shown in particular how some of these technologies can maximize the benefit taken from GRM integration. The technical challenges still to be addressed are highlighted and perspectives derived from the running works emphasized.
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