Visible-light-driven hydrogen generation from sanitation water using a bubble-like As2O3/Poly(2-chlorobenzeneamine) nanocomposite photocathode
摘要
A novel arsenic(III) oxide/poly(2-chlorobenzeneamine) (As2O3/P2CBA) nanocomposite was synthesized via a one-pot chemical oxidative polymerization route using sodium arsenite (NaAsO2) and ammonium persulfate ((NH4)2S2O8) as oxidants. The resulting nanocomposite exhibited a distinctive bubble-like surface morphology and strong broadband optical absorption, accompanied by a narrow optical bandgap of 1.75 eV—underscoring its suitability for visible-light-driven photoelectrochemical applications. When employed as a photocathode, the As₂O₃/P2CBA nanocomposite achieved a current density in light (Jₚₕ) of − 0.018 mA cm⁻² under simulated solar irradiation. The hydrogen generation activity was further evaluated under incident photons with energies ranging from 1.7 to 3.6 eV, revealing pronounced photoresponsivity and energy-dependent current modulation. Remarkably, the hydrogen evolution reaction proceeded efficiently in tertiary-treated sanitation water without any additional supporting electrolyte, highlighting the material’s robustness in real-world water matrices. The synergistic combination of strong visible-light absorption, effective charge carrier separation, and electrolyte adaptability positions the As2O3/P2CBA nanocomposite as a promising platform for sustainable and scalable green hydrogen production. Its ability to harness non-conventional water sources further enhances its potential for deployment in decentralized and environmentally conscious energy systems.