Advances and Practical Prospects for Bias‐Free Photovoltaic‐Driven Electrochemical Water Splitting Systems

Abstract

Bias‐free solar water‐splitting technology is considered an ideal solution to address the energy crisis, as it can efficiently convert solar to hydrogen energy and has made groundbreaking progress. Particularly, photovoltaic (PV)‐driven electrolysis systems exhibit promising potential for enhanced energy conversion efficiency. Nonetheless, the majority of research on PV‐driven water‐splitting systems remains confined to the laboratory scale, with the industrial‐scale application still in the nascent stages. This review comprehensively explores the pivotal factors required to practically apply the bias‐free PV‐driven electrochemical water splitting in the current research. It delves into the fundamental principles involved in the components, the configuration structure of the varied integration degree systems, the differences in composition level of the photovoltaic devices, system scale, reaction environment of the electrolytic system, and strategy for development and refinement of electrocatalysts. Furthermore, it offers a perspective analysis of future research trajectories for each component. This work aims to shed light on the scientific hurdles and future exploration of potential application prospects faced by the field in the process of becoming practical.

Optimizing the active interface structure of MnO2 to achieve sustainable water oxidation in an acidic medium

“…Furthermore, OER involves a multi-step four-electron transfer process that introduces considerable overpotential into actual water splitting reactions, leading to sluggish kinetics and substantially reduced energy conversion efficiency. 8–10 Therefore, it holds immense practical significance in developing low-cost OER electrocatalysts under acidic conditions.…”