Researchers: Solar-to-Hydrogen Tech 10x More Efficient Than Similar Methods
Jan. 5, 2023
Smaller semiconductor decreases cost of clean-hydrogen technology.
By Chemical Processing Staff
University of Michigan researchers have developed a new type of solar panel that could lower the cost of sustainable hydrogen production using a semiconductor that is 100 times smaller than chips used in past solar-to-hydrogen efforts.
The process was capable of converting 9% of solar energy into hydrogen, which is nearly 10 times more efficient than similar solar water-splitting experiments, the U-M researchers say in a Jan. 4 article published on the university website.
Brenda Ahearn/Michigan Engineering, Communications and Marketing
Close-up of the panel with the semiconductor catalyst and water inside.
“The reason we can substantially reduce the semiconductor size is to use highly concentrated sunlight,” says Zetian Mi, U-M professor of electrical and computer engineering who led the study.
This was made possible by using gallium nitride semiconductor nanostructures, which in previous studies have demonstrated self-healing properties during a harsh photocatalysis reaction.
“Conventional semiconductor photocatalyst materials quickly degrade under such harsh conditions,” Mi says.
The team is looking to further improve the efficiency of the process and achieve ultrahigh purity hydrogen that can be directly fed into fuel cells.
Many facilities handle dangerous processes and products on a daily basis. Keeping everything under control demands well-trained people working with the best equipment.
Enhance the training experience and increase retention by training hands-on in Emerson's Interactive Plant Environment. Build skills here so you have them where and when it matters...
See how Rosemount™ 625IR Fixed Gas Detector helps keep workers safe with ultra-fast response times to detect hydrocarbon gases before they can create dangerous situations.
