Eminent Red Sea water hydrogen generation via a Pb(ii)-iodide/poly(1H-pyrrole) nanocomposite photocathode

Abstract

The development of a photocathode based on a Pb(ii)-iodide/poly(1H-pyrrole) porous spherical (PbI2/P1HP PS) nanocomposite has been successfully achieved in the efficient production of H2 gas from Red Sea water. The distinguishable spherical and porous shapes of these nanocomposites are characterized by a minimum surface measuring approximately 25 nm. This structural configuration, coupled with the nanocomposite’s substantial light absorbance, results in a modest bandgap of 2.4 eV. This turns the nanocomposite into a highly promising candidate for renewable energy applications, particularly for H2 gas generation from natural sources like Red Sea water. The economic viability of the PbI2/P1HP PS nanocomposite, relying on a glass substrate, mass production, and straightforward fabrication techniques, adds to its promising profile for H2 gas evolution. The photocathode exhibits significant potential for H2 gas production, with a notable current density (J ph) value of 1.0 mA·cm−2 in a three-electrode cell configuration. The IPCE reaches 3.1%, reflecting the successful evolution of 24 µmol·h−1 10 cm2 of the photocathode. Importantly, the use of natural Red Sea water as an electrolyte underscores a key feature for H2 gas production: utilizing freely available natural resources. This aspect holds considerable promise for industrial applications, emphasizing the environmentally sustainable nature of the photocathode.