Exploring the potential of α-Ge(1 1 1) monolayer in photocatalytic water splitting for hydrogen production

In this study, the structural, electronic, and optical properties of 2D α-Ge(1 1 1) are investigated using Density Functional Theory (DFT) calculations, complemented by many-body perturbation theory calculations based on the GW/BSE approach. The thermodynamic stability of this material is assessed through ab initio molecular dynamics simulations (AIMD), and their dynamic stability is confirmed via phonon dispersion calculations. The analysis of the optical properties reveals significant absorption peaks in both visible and ultraviolet regions, with an absorption edge at 47 eV (1.87 eV without excitonic effects). The band edges are well-aligned with water redox potentials at neutral pH, making them suitable for water-splitting applications. For other pH levels, we find the process may be feasible through the participation of different excited states populated by light absorption. Remarkably, the α-Ge(1 1 1) monolayer demonstrates a predicted solar-to-hydrogen conversion efficiency of 34.80 %, outperforming many other two-dimensional materials. These findings position the α-Ge(1 1 1) monolayer as a promising candidate for developing efficient photocatalytic materials for hydrogen generation via overall water splitting.