The construction of a highly efficient p-n heterojunction Bi2O3/BiVO4 for hydrogen evolution through solar water splitting

In this manuscript, a novel p-n heterojunction Bi2O3/BiVO4 samples were prepared using the facile hydrothermal method, for the efficient production of hydrogen energy. The prepared samples were characterized using XRD, BET, SEM, EDX, UV-Vis absorption and PL emission spectroscopy to study the crystallographic structure, surface area, morphology, elemental composition, and optical properties. The as-prepared 3% Bi2O3/BiVO4 exhibited outstanding hydrogen evolution rate, through photocatalytic water splitting, of 171.13 mmol h-1 g-1, which was 16 times higher than that of pure sample. The improved photocatalytic activity could be attributed to unique crystal structure, morphology, high surface area, and extended region of visible light. This work may pave an operative way for the photocatalytic hydrogen evolution utilizing solar light.

Automated summary

A novel p-n heterojunction Bi2O3/BiVO4 sample was prepared for efficient hydrogen energy production. The as-prepared 3% Bi2O3/BiVO4 showed an outstanding hydrogen evolution rate of 171.13 mmol h-1 g-1, which was 16 times higher than that of the pure sample, attributed to its unique crystal structure, morphology, high surface area, and extended region of visible light.