Enhancing solar-driven hydrogen production through photoelectrochemical methods via dual transition metal doping of titanium oxide to form an impurity energy band

Abstract

Developing a photoanode that is stable, efficient, and cost-effective for photoelectrochemical water splitting poses a significant challenge. To address this, we have successfully synthesized cobalt and chromium-doped Titanium dioxide (CoCrTiO₂) using the hydrothermal method. This innovative approach results in an efficient, stable, and economical material. The introduction of Co and Cr through doping creates an intermediate band energy within TiO₂, thereby enhancing charge separation and movement. The performance of CoCrTiO₂ in the photoelectrochemical water splitting process is noteworthy. At 0 V vs Ag/AgCl, CoCrTiO₂ exhibits a photocurrent density of 3.45 mAcm⁻², representing an impressive 8.5 times increase compared to bare TiO₂. Furthermore, when employed as a photoanode, CoCrTiO₂ demonstrates a significant increase in hydrogen production. The amount of hydrogen generated is measured at 67.8 μmolecm⁻², surpassing bare TiO₂ by a factor of 5.6. Analysis data strongly supports CoCrTiO₂ as an excellent candidate for advancing the field of photoelectrochemical water splitting due to its exceptional performance characteristics.