Abstract:
Utilizing strain induced polarization to amplify the performance of photocatalytic water
splitting systems has garnered significant attention. However, achieving efficient charge
separation, high underwater suspension efficiency and sustained cyclic stability remains a
persistent challenge. In this study we employed co-precipitation technique to synthesize
nanoparticles of ZnFe2O4, CoFe2O4, and their binary composite Zn0.5Co0.5Fe2O4. We
report 22% increase in H2 evolution with our synthesized composite. After introduction of
simultaneous photo and piezoelectric potential by using ultrasonicator H2 evolution is
much enhanced 494 μmol/g-h surpassing individual piezo catalysis 232 μmol/g-h and
photo catalysis 298 μmol/g-h. Additionally, catalyst demonstrates remarkable performance
without any sacrificial agent further highlighting its exceptional potential. Moreover, we
also uncover Zn0.5Co0.5Fe2O4 role in demonstrating promising efficiency for the
generation of hydrogen (𝐻2) and oxygen (𝑂2) as well owing to its huge potential for
electrocatalytic water splitting. This work was supported by performing electrochemical
testings in which Zn0.5Co0.5Fe2O4 retained 94% in chronoamperometry test proving
itself a a bifunctional water-splitting electrolyzer that can act efficiently as both OER and
HER electrodes. Promising results were revealed by these electrochemical studies,
confirming the presence of a spinel crystal structure within the nanoparticles, indicative of
excellent electrochemical performance. This work provides an insight into harnessing and
designing ingenuous composites for efficient and stable piezo photo catalysts and
HER/OER electrode for efficient and stable water splitting systems.
