Defect-controlled ZnO nanorod arrays for enhanced photoelectrochemical performance

In this work, we demonstrated the effect of crystal defects on the photoelectrochemical properties of ZnO nanorod arrays (NRAs). Vertically aligned ZnO NRAs with different defect contents were grown on F doped SnO2 (FTO) glass substrate via facile electrochemical process and annealing treatement.

The enhanced PEC performance of ZnO is attributed to the increasing light absorption and efficient charge separation and transportation which is related to the increasing donor densities.Figure optionsDownload as PowerPoint slideHighlights
► The ZnO with different amount of defects were fabricated on FTO substrates.
► The enhanced PEC performance is mainly attributed to the increased donor densities.
► This work is of great significance for photocatalytic applications.