We present an open-circuit potential-based process for quantifying the wavelength-dependent generation kinetics and lifetimes of photocarriers at the interface between a hybrid Au-modified TiO2 nanostructure and the electrolyte in the absence and presence of redox reactions. Cole-shell and Au-nanoparticle decorated Au@TiO2 nanostructures were achieved by Au vacuum-deposition with controlled thicknesses on hydrothermally synthesized TiO2 nanorods array supported on FTO glass and the post-annealing process, respectively. Au@TiO2 nanorods demonstrated enhanced visible-light utilization with a facilitated photocarrier generation and increased populations, indicating the smallest time constant of 10.9 s at 600 nm of the annealed 5 nm-thickness-Au coated TiO2. Photocatalytic CO2 reduction and Ag+ reduction were respectively involved in the system to obtain the wavelength-dependent variations in the photocarrier generation rates, populations, and lifetimes when redox reactions were occurring at the photoelectrode surfaces. The evolution of photopotential was particularly useful in identifying the multi-step photocarrier transport in the Au and Ag co-decorated TiO2 heterostructure.

Quantitative Study of Photoelectrochemical Properties of Au Nanoparticle Modified TiO2 Nanorods by Open Circuit Potential

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ACS Fall 2022

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