Work

Photocatalytic methane oxidation over a TiO 2 /SiNWs p–n junction catalyst at room temperature

Year: 2024

Type: article

Abstract: Rapid recombination of charge carriers in semiconductors is a main drawback for photocatalytic oxidative coupling of methane (OCM) reactions. Herein, we propose a novel catalyst by developing a p–n junction titania–silicon nanowires (TiO 2 /SiNWs) heterostructure. The structure is fabricated by atomic layer deposition of TiO 2 on p-type SiNWs. The TiO 2 /SiNWs heterostructure exhibited an outstanding OCM performance under simulated solar light irradiation compared to the single components. This enhanced efficiency was attributed to the intrinsic electrical field formed between n-type TiO 2 and p-type SiNWs, which forces generated charge carriers to move in opposite directions and suppresses charge recombination. Besides, surface morphology and optical properties of the the p–n TiO 2 /SiNWs catalyst are also beneficial for the photocatalytic activity. It is expected that the results of this study will provide massive guidance in synthesizing an efficient photocatalyst for CH 4 conversion under mild conditions.

Source: Beilstein Journal of Nanotechnology

DOI: 10.3762/bjnano.15.92

Authors: Qui Thanh Hoai Ta, Luan Minh Nguyen, Ngoc Hoi Nguyen, Phan Khanh Thinh Nguyen, Dai Hai Nguyen

Institutions: Vietnam Academy of Science and Technology, Graduate University of Science and Technology, Gachon University

Language: English

Topic: TiO2 Photocatalysis and Solar Cells

Subfield: Renewable Energy, Sustainability and the Environment

Field: Energy

Domain: Physical Sciences

SDG: Affordable and clean energy

Open Access status: diamond

Funders: Tập đoàn Vingroup - Công ty CP, Quỹ Đổi mới sáng tạo Vingroup