CHAPTER 3: Structured Materials for Photoelectrochemical Water Splitting

Structured materials possess several benefits and drawbacks when used in photoelectrochemical water splitting systems. The first section of this chapter introduces the relevant parameters of semiconductor/catalyst photoelectrochemical systems including light absorption, charge separation, photovoltage, mass transport, and catalytic turnover. This section further presents the interplay and tradeoffs that exist when optimizing these parameters together into a practical device that utilizes structured materials. The second section of this chapter reviews recent developments of photoelectrochemical water splitting components with control over structure at the micro and nano scales and concludes with some perspectives on future developments for the realization of functional solar water splitting systems.