Promising porous spherical PbI₂/poly-2-aminobenzenethiol nanocomposite as a photocathode for hydrogen generation from Red Sea water

Abstract

A highly efficient porous spherical nanocomposite photocathode, known as PbI2/poly-2-amino benzene thiol (PbI2/P2ABT), is created through a two-step reaction process involving the oxidation of 2-amino benzene thiol with iodine, followed by a double displacement reaction. The resulting nanocomposite displays outstanding morphology, comprising spherical particles with a diameter of 500 nm and featuring nanoscale porosity with pore sizes around 5 nm. Notably, the hydrogen production estimate reaches 9.6 µmole/h·10 cm2, a promising outcome attributed to the environmentally friendly and cost-effective use of natural Red Sea water. The quantification of hydrogen gas is accomplished by assessing the photogenerated carriers using the current density relationship. The calculated Jph value experiences a substantial increase to -0.122 mA.cm-2 compared to a minimal 0.07 mA.cm-2 in the absence of light. Furthermore, the optical assessment reveals exceptional Jph values under 340 nm, reaching 0.121 mA.cm-2, which extends to the visible spectrum with a value of 0.112 mA.cm-2. The remarkable features of this nanocomposite include its cost-effectiveness, ease of fabrication, and scalability for mass production. These qualities collectively enable the conversion of Red Sea water into hydrogen gas, offering a practical and efficient solution aligned with eco-friendly and economically viable practices. This nanocomposite shows significant potential for advancing clean energy technologies and contributing to sustainable hydrogen production from natural water sources.