Construction of Ru/BWO photoanode for efficient photoelectrochemical water splitting via ohmic contact

Photoelectrochemical (PEC) water splitting is regarded as a promising approach for future environmental remediation and energy conversion. Therefore, the selection and preparation of appropriate photoelectrode anode materials are critical for achieving efficient PEC water decomposition. In this study, the photocurrent density of Ru/BWO photoelectrodes, prepared through a hydrothermal method combined with annealing, is 25 times greater than that of BWO at 1.23 V RHE . Photoelectrochemical tests and first-principles calculations reveal that the PEC performance is significantly enhanced by exploiting the difference in work function , which facilitates the formation of an Ohmic contact between Ru and BWO. This, in turn, leads to charge redistribution at the Ru/BWO interface, generating an inbuilt electric field (IEF) that drives the separation and rapid transfer of photogenerated carriers. The modulation of interfacial charge transfer through the formation of Ohmic contacts between the metal and semiconductor, resulting in the generation of an IEF, is of great importance for the design of highly efficient photoanodes . • Ohmic contact formed by Ru and BWO can modulate the interface charge transfer. • The IEF of Ru/BWO Ohmic contact exacerbates the migration of photogenerated carrier. • Efficient PEC performance by modulating the interfacial charge transfer of Ru/BWO.