Bias-Free Dual H2 Production System: 4x Higher Efficiency Than DOE Target
Researchers have devised a novel bias-free dual hydrogen production system, replacing the energy-intensive oxygen evolution reaction with the cost-effective oxidation of furfural. The system consists of a highly efficient PtC/Ni/c-Si photocathode for water reduction and a copper anode for furfural oxidation, producing valuable furoic acid and hydrogen. This design cleverly harnesses the high photocurrent of the c-Si photocathode, eliminating the need for external bias and achieving a significantly higher hydrogen production rate than conventional water splitting. The solar hydrogen production rate is more than 8 times higher than previously reported bias-free PEC H2 production systems, far exceeding the US Department of Energy (DOE) target.