Optimization of MoSx Pulsed Laser Deposition of a Thin-Film Catalyst for an Efficient Hydrogen Evolution Reaction on a Silicon Photocathode

The efficiency of photoactivated hydrogen evolution in an acidic solution on a p-Si cathode with a thin film of amorphous molybdenum sulfide catalyst is studied. The method of formation of the catalyst film significantly affects the quality of the photocathode. The highest photocurrents are found when the catalytic film is deposited by the traditional method of pulsed laser deposition from an MoS2 target. Varying the conditions of reactive pulsed laser deposition from a Mo target in hydrogen sulfide did not allow a high efficiency of hydrogen production. Possible reasons for the difference in the functional characteristics of the created photocathodes are revealed.

Automated summary

This study investigates the efficiency of photoactivated hydrogen evolution in an acidic solution on a p-Si cathode with a thin film of amorphous molybdenum sulfide catalyst. The method of formation of the catalyst film significantly affects the quality of the photocathode. The highest photocurrents are achieved with the traditional method of pulsed laser deposition from an MoS2 target, while varying the conditions of reactive pulsed laser deposition from a Mo target in hydrogen sulfide did not result in high efficiency of hydrogen production. Possible reasons for the difference in the functional characteristics of the created photocathodes are revealed.