Solid-state magic: How Bi2O3 and V2O5 combine to create a high-performance photoanode for water oxidation

A simple method to create a BiVO4-V2O5 photoanode with excellent interfacial contact and self-doping with V4} and oxygen vacancies was proposed in this study. Direct generation of BiVO4 within the film through a solid state reaction between Bi2O3 and V2O5 was achieved, resulting in a highly efficient charge separation and a photocurrent density of 6.6 mA cm-2 at 1.23 V vs. RHE. The bulk charge separation efficiency was 95 %. This study highlights the importance of good interfacial contact for suppressing charge recombination and enabling efficient water oxidation. The developed synthesis method can be a practical approach for fabricating advanced photoelectrodes for sustainable water-splitting technologies, enabling carbon-free fuel production.(c) 2023 Hydrogen Energy Publications LLC. Published by Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.