Fe doped BaTiO3 sensitized by Fe3O4 nanoparticles for improved photoelectrochemical response

Nanostructured powders of pristine Fe3O4, BaTiO3, and Fe-BaTiO3 were synthesized using hydrothermal method and BaTiO3/Fe3O4 and Fe-BaTiO3/Fe3O4 composite sample were also prepared by mixing the appropriate amount of pristine powders. All samples were characterized using x-ray diffraction, SEM and UV-vis spectrometry. Photoelectrochemical properties were investigated in a three-electrode cell system. Maximum photocurrent density of 2.1 mA cm(-2) at 0.95 V/SCE was observed for Fe-BaTiO3/Fe3O4 composite sample. Increased photocurrent density offered by composite may be attributed to improved conductivity and better separation of the photogenerated charge carriers at interface.