Compact hematite buffer layer as a promoter of nanorod photoanode performances

R. Milan*, S. Cattarin, N. Comisso, C. Baratto, Kimmo Kaunisto, N. V. Tkachenko, I. Concina

*Corresponding author for this work

    Research output: Contribution to journalArticleScientificpeer-review

    17 Citations (Scopus)

    Abstract

    The effect of a thin α-Fe 2 O 3 compact buffer layer (BL) on the photoelectrochemical performances of a bare α-Fe 2 O 3 nanorods photoanode is investigated. The BL is prepared through a simple spray deposition onto a fluorine-doped tin oxide (FTO) conducting glass substrate before the growth of a α-Fe 2 O 3 nanorods via a hydrothermal process. Insertion of the hematite BL between the FTO and the nanorods markedly enhances the generated photocurrent, by limiting undesired losses of photogenerated charges at the FTO||electrolyte interface. The proposed approach warrants a marked improvement of material performances, with no additional thermal treatment and no use/dispersion of rare or toxic species, in agreement with the principles of green chemistry.

    Original languageEnglish
    Article number35049
    JournalScientific Reports
    Volume6
    DOIs
    Publication statusPublished - 13 Oct 2016
    MoE publication typeA1 Journal article-refereed

    Fingerprint

    Dive into the research topics of 'Compact hematite buffer layer as a promoter of nanorod photoanode performances'. Together they form a unique fingerprint.

    Cite this