Engineering Active Sites in CeO 2 by Nickel Doping for Efficient Water Splitting and Green Energy Production by Hydroelectric Cells
Year: 2025
Type: article
Abstract: High Resolution Image Download MS PowerPoint Slide This study focuses on the development and analysis of a device known as hydroelectric cell. It generates electricity directly from water by splitting it into H 3 O + and OH – ions at room temperature. This eco-friendly device also produces hydrogen gas as a byproduct. CeO 2 and Ni-doped CeO 2 nanoparticles were synthesized via the coprecipitation method and thoroughly characterized. X-ray diffraction confirmed their crystalline fluorite structure, while Raman spectroscopy and FTIR analysis revealed the presence of oxygen vacancies induced by nickel doping. Field-emission scanning electron microscopy showed a well-dispersed polyhedral morphology, and Brunauer–Emmett–Teller analysis indicated a significant enhancement in surface properties. The surface area increased from 34.83 m 2 /g for pristine CeO 2 to 113.18 m 2 /g for (3M%) Ni-CeO 2, with a pore size of 7.5 nm and a pore volume of 0.1653 cm 3 /g. The fabricated 4 cm 2 hydroelectric cells achieved an open-circuit voltage of 0.9 V and short-circuit currents of 8.98, 15.03, 40.0, and 12.0 mA for CeO 2, (1M%) Ni-CeO 2, (3M%) Ni-CeO 2 and (5M%) Ni-CeO 2, respectively. Electrochemical impedance spectroscopy confirmed enhanced ionic diffusion under wet conditions, with the 3M% Ni-CeO 2 hydroelectric cell showing the lowest impedance (∼16 Ω). The 4-fold increase in current generation from pristine CeO 2 to (3M%) Ni-CeO 2 underscores the role of nickel in enhancing water dissociation, highlighting the potential of these hydroelectric cells for sustainable green energy applications.
Source: ACS Omega
Authors: Anjali Bankura, Anurag Gaur, Maneesha Garg
Language: English
Field: Energy
Domain: Physical Sciences
Open Access status: gold
Estimated APC paid: $1,935
Award: G3873421542
OpenAlex ID: W4415671232