Scalable Device Uses Solar Power to Produce Green Hydrogen

23 Jun 2025 CW Team

Led by Dr Ashutosh K. Singh, the research team engineered a silicon-based photoanode using an innovative n-i-p heterojunction architecture—a layered structure composed of n-type titanium dioxide (TiO₂), intrinsic silicon, and p-type nickel oxide (NiO). This configuration enhances charge separation and transport, ensuring more efficient solar-to-hydrogen conversion. The materials were deposited using magnetron sputtering, an industry-friendly, scalable process that guarantees high precision.

The device demonstrated a surface photovoltage of 600 millivolts and a low onset potential of approximately 0.11 VRHE, making it highly efficient under solar illumination. Notably, the system showed exceptional stability, functioning continuously for over 10 hours in alkaline conditions with only a 4 per cent drop in performance—a rare accomplishment in silicon-based photoelectrochemical systems.

What makes this development particularly promising is its combination of high efficiency, low energy input, cost-effective materials, and durability. The team also demonstrated large-scale potential, with a 25 square centimetre photoanode delivering consistent results in solar-driven water splitting.

“This device not only enhances performance but is also scalable for large-scale production,” said Dr Singh, adding that the achievement brings India a step closer to affordable solar-to-hydrogen energy systems.

The research, published in the Journal of Materials Chemistry A by the Royal Society of Chemistry, could play a pivotal role in India’s clean energy transition. With further development, this technology may support hydrogen-based power systems for homes, vehicles, and industries, all sustainably powered by the sun.

In a significant advancement for sustainable energy, scientists at the Centre for Nano and Soft Matter Sciences (CeNS) in Bengaluru have developed a next-generation device capable of producing green hydrogen using only solar energy and earth-abundant materials. The breakthrough offers a scalable and efficient solution for hydrogen production without relying on fossil fuels or costly inputs.Led by Dr Ashutosh K. Singh, the research team engineered a silicon-based photoanode using an innovative n-i-p heterojunction architecture—a layered structure composed of n-type titanium dioxide (TiO₂), intrinsic silicon, and p-type nickel oxide (NiO). This configuration enhances charge separation and transport, ensuring more efficient solar-to-hydrogen conversion. The materials were deposited using magnetron sputtering, an industry-friendly, scalable process that guarantees high precision.The device demonstrated a surface photovoltage of 600 millivolts and a low onset potential of approximately 0.11 VRHE, making it highly efficient under solar illumination. Notably, the system showed exceptional stability, functioning continuously for over 10 hours in alkaline conditions with only a 4 per cent drop in performance—a rare accomplishment in silicon-based photoelectrochemical systems.What makes this development particularly promising is its combination of high efficiency, low energy input, cost-effective materials, and durability. The team also demonstrated large-scale potential, with a 25 square centimetre photoanode delivering consistent results in solar-driven water splitting.“This device not only enhances performance but is also scalable for large-scale production,” said Dr Singh, adding that the achievement brings India a step closer to affordable solar-to-hydrogen energy systems.The research, published in the Journal of Materials Chemistry A by the Royal Society of Chemistry, could play a pivotal role in India’s clean energy transition. With further development, this technology may support hydrogen-based power systems for homes, vehicles, and industries, all sustainably powered by the sun.

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