Pt nanoparticle decorated InP nanopore arrays for enhanced photoelectrochemical performance

Here, we report the scalable preparation of Pt nanoparticles decorated indium phosphide nanopore arrays (Pt@InP NPAs) using a facile two-step etching method followed by a dipping and electrodeposition process. The morphology and element composition of the Pt@InP heterostructures were characterized. Photoelectrochemical properties of the Pt@InP electrodes were investigated under simulated sunlight irradiation. Compared to pristine InP NPAs, the resulting Pt@InP NPAs show a greatly increased photocurrent density and a largely improved onset potential for photoelectrochemical (PEC) hydrogen evolution. Electrochemical impedance spectroscopy reveals that the improved PEC performance is attributed to the enhanced charge transfer and the improved charge separation at Pt@InP NPAs/electrolyte interfaces.