Photoelectrochemical measurements on thermally grown platinum containing iron oxide photoanodes

Experimental conditions are discussed for the thermal growth of iron oxide photoanodes which promote alpha-Fe2O3 formation. The photoelectrochemical (PEC) performance of iron oxide electrodes is compared as a function of surface modification procedure. Platinum was found to be an effective electrocatalyst when incorporated into the bulk of the thermally grown iron oxide during the latter's preparation. This procedure was found to increase the carrier density and to give a more negative flatband potential.