A H2-evolving photocathode based on direct sensitization of MoS3 with an organic photovoltaic cellElectronic supplementary information (ESI) available: TEM images and EDX spectrum of MoS3 nanoparticles (Fig. S1 and S2). MoS3 film characterization (Fig. S3, profilometry; Fig. S4, SEM; Fig. S5 to S7, CVs; Fig. S8, impedance; Fig. S9 to S11, XPS). Mixed TiO2:MoS3 film characterization (Fig. S12, CVs; Fig. S13, impedance). Photocathode characterization (Fig. S14, electrolysis; Fig. S15, gas chromato

• Main Authors: Bourgeteau, Tiphaine, Tondelier, Denis, Geffroy, Bernard, Brisse, Romain, Laberty-Robert, Christel, Campidelli, Stéphane, de Bettignies, Rémi, Artero, Vincent, Palacin, Serge, Jousselme, Bruno
• Format: Journal Article
• Language: English
• Published: 14.08.2013
• ISSN: 1754-5692; 1754-5706
• DOI: 10.1039/c3ee41321g

An organic solar cell based on a poly-3-hexylthiophene (P3HT):phenyl-C 61 -butyric acid (PCBM) bulk hetero-junction was directly coupled to molybdenum sulfide resulting in the design of a new type of photocathode for the production of hydrogen. Both the light-harvesting system and the catalyst were deposited by low-cost solution-processed methods, i.e. spin coating and spray coating respectively. Spray-coated MoS 3 films are catalytically active in strongly acidic aqueous solutions with the best efficiencies for thicknesses of 40 to 90 nm. The photocathodes display photocurrents higher than reference samples, without a catalyst or without coupling with a solar cell. Gas chromatography analysis confirms the light-induced hydrogen evolution. The addition of titanium dioxide in the MoS 3 film enhances electron transport and collection within thick films and therefore the performance of the photocathode. A new photocathode for hydrogen photoproduction has been designed by direct coupling of organic solar cells with a non-precious catalyst.