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Semiconductor photoelectrolysis
Posted Oct 7, 2014, 7:32 a.m. EDT Semiconductor Devices, Electrochemistry Version 4.4 2 Replies
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I am hoping to model a photoelectrochemical cell in which a semiconductor working electrode (e.g. InP) is used in conjunction with a counter electrode (e.g. Pt) which under the influence of solar irradiation can split water into hydrogen and oxygen.
I'm struggling to think of where to start with this problem; the examples provided in the electrochemistry module are too simplistic as I need to gain an insight into where band edges within the semiconductor sit relative to oxygen- and hydrogen-production potentials in the electrolyte.
A Schottky junction (band bending) is formed at the semiconductor electrode - electrolyte interface and illumination should (in theory) flatten this band bending by the photogeneration of charge carriers in the depletion region formed by said bending. I would ideally like to model the extent of this band bending under varying illumination.
Does anyone have any suggestions as to where to start or ideas/thoughts about the aims in general? Any help greatly appreciated!
Many thanks,
Sam
Hello Samuel Harrison
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I am trying to solve for fields outside the semiconductor. Did you have any success of coupling semiconductor with electrochemistry/electrostatics module ?
Kind regards,
Michal
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I'm afraid I didn't have any success in the end, but I'd be interested to hear if you have any success with your project!
Sam