Cu2O nanowires based p-n homojunction photocathode for improved current density and hydrogen generation through solar-water splitting

Hydrogen generation through solar-water splitting is expected to address the global energy crisis by providing a source for a safer and sustainable alternative fuel. Herein, we report a facile synthesis of Cu2O nanowires and show that the magnetic field could influence the nanowires' distribution and alignment. Orientation of nanowires was observed to become more inclined towards the magnetic field lines as the values of full-width at half maximum decreased from 140 degrees to 46.2 degrees with the increase in the field strength. Crystallographic, morphological, optoelectronic, and photoelectrochemical properties of the constructed p-n homojunction were analyzed by using different characterization techniques. A high builtin potential of +0.93 V vs. RHE was observed for a 50 nm layer of n-Cu2O over p-Cu2O nanowires that resulted in a significantly high photocurrent density of -7.42 mA/cm(2). The stability in the photoelectrochemical medium was maintained for 14 h, generating 20 mmol/cm(2) of H-2. (C) 2021 Hydrogen Energy Publications LLC. Published by Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.