Extensive energy conversion of solar energy can only be achieved by large-scale collection of solar flux. The technology that satisfies this requirement must be as simple as possible to reduce capital cost of photoreactor. Overall water splitting by powder-form photocatalysts directly produces a mixture of H2 and O2 (chemical energy) in a single reactor, which does not require any complicated parabolic mirrors and electronic devices. Because of its simplicity and low capital cost, it has tremendous potential to become the major technology of solar energy conversion. Development of highly efficient photocatalysts is desired. In this presentation, the concept and strategy to develop efficient visible-light-responsive photocatalysts are discussed based on three components: semiconductor, electrocatalysts, and interface. The state of the art for the photocatalysts for overall water splitting is described including core-shell cocatalyst, non-noble metal cocatalysts, and Ta3N5 semiconductor for water oxidation.

Solar energy conversion by overall water splitting using powder-form heterogeneous photocatalysts

247th National Meeting (2014)

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