ELECTRODE MATERIALS FOR PHOTOELECTROLYSIS OF WATER

There has recently been a renewed interest in photoelectrochemical processes at semiconductor-electrolyte interfaces for possible applications in solar conversion. In particular, the photoelectrolysis of water by sunlight in electrochemical cells to produce the fuel H2 has resulted in considerable research. In this paper, the concepts of photoelectrolysis are used as a guide for deriving the physical and chemical properties necessary for materials to be efficient electrodes in such cells. Presently available materials are considered in this context along with prospects for the future. © 1978.