Photoelectrochemical Cell: Can they work with external potential?

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SUMMARY

The discussion centers on the functionality of photoelectrochemical cells, specifically regarding the generation of photocurrent. It is established that a photoelectrochemical cell utilizing a titanium dioxide (TiO2) photoanode and platinum (Pt) counter electrode can produce a photocurrent under UV illumination. However, without UV light and solely with an external bias, a current can still be generated, but it will not qualify as a photocurrent. The key takeaway is that illumination is essential for classifying the current as photocurrent.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of photoelectrochemical cells
  • Knowledge of titanium dioxide (TiO2) as a photoanode
  • Familiarity with photocurrent generation principles
  • Basic concepts of external bias in electrochemistry
NEXT STEPS
  • Research the mechanisms of photocurrent generation in photoelectrochemical cells
  • Explore the role of titanium dioxide (TiO2) in photocatalysis
  • Investigate the effects of external bias on electrochemical reactions
  • Learn about advancements in photoelectrochemical cell designs for water splitting
USEFUL FOR

This discussion is beneficial for researchers, chemists, and engineers involved in renewable energy technologies, particularly those focusing on water splitting and photocatalytic processes.

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Photoelectrochemical Cell for water splitting with semi conducting photoanode (TiO2) and metal counter electrode (Pt).

A photoelectrochemical cell under UV illumination generates a photocurrent. This photocurrent can be increased by applying an external bias because of improved exciton splitting.

No photocurrent is observed if there is no UV illumination and no external bias.

My question is: Can a photocurrent be generated with an external bias and no UV illumination?

Thanks
 
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By definition: Photocurrent is the electric current through a photosensitive device, such as a photodiode, as the result of exposure to radiant power.

Therefore, if there is no radiation on the cell, then no photocurrent will be produced. If you apply a potential across the cell, you will see a current generated since any electrode can split water as long as it is given enough energy. This current would not be classified as a photocurrent since it is not caused by external radiation on the cell.

To summarize, a current can be produced by an external potential, but it will not be classified as a photocurrent unless there is illumination of the cell.
 

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