Work

A robust N@g-C3N4NiMoIr aerogel photoanode for efficient photoelectrochemical water splitting: Synergistic effects and interfacial kinetics

Year: 2025

Type: article

Abstract: Photoelectrochemical (PEC) water splitting is a promising strategy for sustainable hydrogen generation, but it is often limited by sluggish charge transfer and reaction kinetics. In this study, a trimetallic aerogel photoanode composed of nitrogen-doped graphitic carbon nitride integrated with Ni, Mo, and Ir nanoparticles (N@g-C 3 N 4 -NiMoIr) was synthesized through a simple NaBH 4 reduction–gelation process. The resulting porous architecture and strong synergistic interactions among the three metals significantly enhanced light absorption, charge separation, and catalytic activity. Optical and electrochemical analyses confirmed improved visible-light harvesting, suppressed electron–hole recombination, and efficient interfacial charge transport. The optimized N@g-C 3 N 4 -NiMoIr photoanode generated a maximum photocurrent density of 7.89 mA cm −2 at 1.23 V vs. RHE and an ABPE of 0.22 %, while retaining 86 % of its photocurrent after 11,000 s of operation. These results highlight the potential of synergistic multi-metal aerogel systems for advancing efficient and stable PEC water-splitting technologies.

Source: International Journal of Hydrogen Energy

DOI: 10.1016/j.ijhydene.2025.152633

Authors: Dieudonne Tanue Nde, Jingjing Li, Imran Hasan, Saood Ali, Jude Eko Namanga

Institutions: Yeungnam University, Zhejiang University, King Saud University, Coppin State University

Language: English

Topic: Advanced Photocatalysis Techniques

Subfield: Renewable Energy, Sustainability and the Environment

Field: Energy

Domain: Physical Sciences

SDG: Affordable and clean energy

Open Access status: hybrid

Estimated APC paid: $3,730