Elevating the charge separation of MgFe2O4 nanostructures by Zn ions for enhanced photocatalytic and photoelectrochemical water splitting

Magnesium ferrites (MgFe2O4) are important class of ferrites that have been receiving greater attention as promising excellent photocatalyst due to its low cost, wide light spectrum response and environment-friendly nature. However, its poor electronic conductivity and fast charge carrier recombination hinders its electrocatalytical applications. Hence, accelerating charge carriers separation efficiency is important to modify the photoelectrochemical performance of MgFe2O4. Herein, novel Zn ions doped MgFe2O4 nanospheres are fabricated for the first time. Zn ions are doped into MgFe2O4 nanostructures from surface to enhance their charge separation efficiency. The doped MgFe2O4 nanostructures show significant photocatalytic activity and enhanced photocurrent density than that of pristine MgFe2O4. The improved photoelectrocatalytic performance is attributed to doping effect, were Zn ions actually enhance the conductivity. Zn ions enhance the activity of MgFe2O4 and accelerate the charge transfer properties in MgFe2O4. The results highlight that Zn doped MgFe2O4 nanospheres could be a potential candidate for photocatalytic and photoelectrochemical applications.

Automated summary

In this study, novel Zn ions doped MgFe2O4 nanospheres were fabricated for the first time, showing significant photocatalytic activity and enhanced photocurrent density. The doping effect of Zn ions enhances the conductivity and charge transfer properties, making Zn doped MgFe2O4 nanospheres a potential candidate for photocatalytic and photoelectrochemical applications.