LnFe0.5Cr0.5O3 based perovskites showing multiferroic properties and polarization induced photoelectrochemical activity

Efficient charge separation driven by the polarization induced internal electric field in ferroelectric materials known for enhancing efficiency of solar energy conversion. In the present work, we synthesized two oxides, LnFe(0.5)Cr(0.5)O(3) (Ln = Nd, Ho), (designated with NFCO and HFCO) with disordered perovskite structure. They are new multiferroic, semiconducting materials having ferromagnetic and ferroelectric properties. They have suitable conduction band (CB) and valence band (VB) position and appropriate bandgap (2.38-2.60 eV) to act as photoactive materials for efficient visible-light-driven photoelectrochemical water splitting applications. Time resolved spectroscopy and photoluminescence (PL) studies further revealed their enhanced visible light driven activity due to diminished recombination of photogenerated charge. Electrochemical studies in NdFe0.5Cr0.5O3 confirmed high photocurrent density up to 1.92 mA cm(-2).

Automated summary

Efficient charge separation in ferroelectric materials can enhance solar energy conversion efficiency. In this study, two new multiferroic, semiconducting materials were synthesized with suitable band positions and bandgaps for efficient visible-light-driven photoelectrochemical water splitting applications. Spectroscopy and photoluminescence studies demonstrated enhanced visible light activity in these materials.