Surface modification of porous ZnO sheets with Ag and Ag2O nanoparticles for enhanced photoelectrochemical and photocatalytic performance
Year: 2025
Type: article
Abstract: This study demonstrates significant enhancements in the structural, optical, and photoelectrochemical (PEC) properties of porous ZnO sheet templates via surface modification with metallic silver (Ag) and Ag 2 O nanoparticles. Increased sputtering duration boosts nanoparticle coverage, gradually reducing ZnO’s visible porosity. X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy confirms the presence of Ag and silver ions (Ag + ), while surface plasmon resonance (SPR) effects and p-n junctions enhance light absorption and charge separation. Optical and PEC analyses identify ZA150 and ZAO130 as optimally modified samples, achieving improved light harvesting and charge dynamics. ZA150 excels in Rhodamine B degradation due to efficient SPR-assisted charge transfer, while ZAO130 benefits from built-in electric fields at the ZnO/Ag 2 O junction. Reactive species trapping highlights hydroxyl and superoxide radicals as the main degradation agents. Overall, the findings underscore the promise of Ag- and Ag 2 O-decorated ZnO in solar-driven photocatalysis and offer guidance for tuning surface characteristics to maximize efficiency. • Surface modification with Ag and Ag 2 O nanoparticles was achieved on porous ZnO sheets by sputtering. • Enhances visible light absorption and charge separation in porous ZnO sheets using surface plasmon resonance and p–n junctions. • The composite samples show improved photocatalytic and photoelectrochemical activity. • Trapping reactive species shows the effects of customized nanoparticle coatings and heterojunction engineering.
Authors: Yuan-Chang Liang, Ho-Chung Yang, Hao Jung
Institution: National Taiwan Ocean University
Language: English
Field: Energy
Domain: Physical Sciences
Open Access status: gold
Estimated APC paid: $1,300
OpenAlex ID: W4414979497