Researchers at Tianjin University in China have made a groundbreaking advancement in solar-powered hydrogen production. They have developed a semi-transparent photoanode that achieves a record solar-to-hydrogen conversion efficiency of 5.1 percent, according to reports from TV BRICS. This achievement marks a significant step towards scalable “artificial leaf” technology, which utilizes solar energy to split water into hydrogen and oxygen in an environmentally-friendly manner.
Led by Professor Wang Tuo from the School of Chemical Engineering and Technology, the team addressed the limitations of unbiased solar water splitting systems that generate hydrogen without requiring external voltage. Their innovative photoanode, crafted from indium sulfide, successfully balances the need for both conductivity and light transparency. Professor Wang explained that their semi-transparent design enhances the water oxidation process while allowing more photons to reach the photocathode, thereby minimizing energy losses.
This device has surpassed the traditional 5 percent efficiency benchmark, achieving the highest performance to date for silicon photocathode systems paired with inorganic photoanodes. Looking forward, the researchers are optimistic that with further refinements, this technology could pave the way for cost-effective and durable artificial leaves.
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