Plasmon-induced hole-depletion layer on hematite nanoflake photoanodes for highly efficient solar water splitting

The FeOOH with the assistance of photon-induced surface plasmon resonance excitation via Au nanoparticles serves as a “hole-depletion” layer for significantly promoting the PEC performance of α-Fe2O3 nanoflakes. The photogenerated holes could be efficiently extracted from α-Fe2O3 to FeOOH layer and promptly depleted by the injected hot electrons from Au, efficiently enhancing charge separation and facilitating water oxidation.387