Practical semiconductor physics perspective of materials photoelectrochemistry

Large-scale production of H-2 from renewable energy (solar) and renewable feed (water) is an important aspirational goal of the scientific enterprise. Implementation of solar-H-2 via a device that integrates electrocatalysis and light absorption has been a rich source of physical electrochemistry but has not resulted in technology despite five decades of exploration. Semiconductor photoelectrochemistry is not only at the ma-terial interface of semiconductors and electrolyte, but is also at the interface of scientific practices of different communities. This review aims to provide a succinct overview of concepts emphasizing the coupled nature of physicochemical events, the critical need for stability at the interface and most chal-lenging issue of directing electrons and holes to the surface via internal electric field. Finally, pointers to bring together the productive practices of the semiconductor and electrochemical community are provided.

Automated summary

This article highlights the importance and challenges of producing H-2 from solar energy and water, emphasizing the coupled nature of physicochemical events and the critical need for interface stability in semiconductor photoelectrochemistry research.