Scientists from Tohoku University and other leading institutions recently unveiled a photocatalytic water splitting process that could revolutionize hydrogen production. The new approach uses solar energy to assist in hydrogen electrolysis, splitting water into hydrogen and oxygen molecules. As such, it can potentially revolutionize the clean energy sector and open the door for a deeper understanding of photocatalytic capabilities.
How Photocatalysis Works
Photocatalysis occurs when UV light is used to activate other catalysts, which initiates a chemical process. It’s a common strategy used by scientists that provides a cleaner initiation of processes and doesn’t require the use of additional catalysts in the starting process. In most instances, the catalyst will absorb the UV energy until it reaches its activation stage. Notably, titanium(IV) oxide (TiO2) is the most stable and active photocatalyst in use today.
Current Limitations in Photocatalytic Systems
There is still a lot of research and development to be done in regards to using photocatalytic processes. Some limitations of the science include low efficiency and rapid electron-hole recombination. The latter results in reduced performance and additional waste.
Photocatalytic Hydrogen Production: An Overview
One area of interest where photocatalysis has found a home is in water splitting applications. Scientists have noted that by using sunlight to break down water molecules into hydrogen and oxygen, they can create a clean energy source that is readily available globally and can scale to meet the needs of the community.
Study Overview: Janus Heterobilayers in Action
The study1, “Rational Design 2D Heterobilayers Transition-Metal Dichalcogenide and Their Janus for Efficient Water Splitting“, looks at the use of photocatalysts in hydrogen electrolysis. The study delves deep into how to boost photocatalytic performance, exploring unique material compositions including Janus heterobilayers.
The Role of Janus Heterobilayers in Water Splitting
Janus heterobilayers are 2D structures that possess unique characteristics based on their positioning. They are created using multiple material combinations, which can utilize intrinsic dipoles and strong internal electric fields. Notably, there are nearly limitless combinations. However, for this study, the team focused on Janus transition-metal dichalcogenide (TMDC) heterobilayers.
Source – Tohoku University
Density-Functional Theory (DFT)
The researchers utilized density-functional theory (DFT) calculations to determine the ideal atomic arrangements. The models allowed the team to identify electric field boosts, enabling the team to track crucial data, including carrier mobility, surface chemistry, band gaps, and alignment of synthetic and internal electric fields.
Testing Material Combinations for Efficiency
The scientist selected 20 optimal pairings for testing. They then utilized the Fröhlich interaction model to gain a deeper understanding of how phonon scattering and other processes affect photocatalytic performance.
Key Findings: WS₂–SMoSe Achieves 16.62% Efficiency
After testing the 20 options, the scientists were able to optimize the electronic and structural properties of 2D materials to create an ideal solution. Notably, the team determined that WS₂-SMoSe heterobilayer provided the best results. The material demonstrated a solar-to-hydrogen conversion efficiency of 16.62%, far outperforming previous alternatives.
Why Photocatalytic Hydrogen Matters for Clean Energy
The benefits of the clean hydrogen study are undeniable. For one, this technology provides a clearer path to clean energy production, reducing greenhouse gas emissions and slowing global warming. The use of solar energy to power the process is a great example of leveraging one clean energy source to create another.
Real-World Applications and Timeline for Deployment
There are several applications for this technology. For one, it could be used to power your home or vehicles in the future. There are already lots of hydrogen-powered options. However, in the past, obtaining hydrogen was a process that couldn’t be done by the average individual safely. This latest upgrade could open the door for low-cost solar-initiated electrolysis that falls in line with the global goal to reduce pollution and enhance energy independence.
There have been no specifics given on when you could see this technology hit the market. However, it’s a safe bet that it will still be around 5-10 years before you will be able to power your car using hydrogen from your solar farm with your in-house electrolysis machine. This timeline could be reduced as demand for clean energy continues to increase.
Photocatalytic Water Splitting Researchers
The Photocatalytic Water Splitting study was hosted by Tohoku University and the University of Science, Vietnam National University – Ho Chi Minh City (VNU-HCM). This study lists Nguyen Tuan Hung as the lead author and Vu Thi Hanh Thu as the co-author. The study also shows that Nguyen Tran Gia Bao, Ton Nu Quynh Trang, Nam Thoai, and Thang Bach Phan assisted in this groundbreaking research.
What’s Next for Photocatalytic Hydrogen Technology?
There is still much research to be done in terms of creating the ideal photocatalytic system. The engineers will now seek to make the process easier and more accessible to the public. These steps will include shrinking the system and making it portable, easy to use, and integrable into the average home.
Investing in the Hydrogen Fuel sector
There are several firms that compete in the billion-dollar hydrogen fuel sector, which is predicted to expand to $40.39B by 2029. These companies provide a range of services from prepared hydrogen to onsite systems, car engines, and much more. Here’s one company that managed to carve a niche in the market and remain a respected competitor.
Power Plug (PLUG -2.86%) entered the market in 1997 after DTE Energy and Mechanical Technology Inc. joined forces to provide high-performance hydrogen fuel cell systems to the market. The company is currently headquartered in Latham, New York, and has +3,400 employees.
Since its launch, Power Plug has made significant market strides. It was the first hydrogen system manufacturer to offer commercial fuel cell systems to EU clients. Additionally, it has pioneered the use of hydrogen engines in the trucking industry. All of these factors reflect the company’s goal to provide variable clean energy solutions.
Plug Power Inc. (PLUG -2.86%)
Power Plug is ideally positioned to gain market penetration as the international community has committed to reducing fossil fuels significantly over the next decades. As such, it could benefit greatly if it were to release a photocatalytic water splitting system to the public in the coming years.
Latest Plug Power (PLUG) Stock News and Developments
Photocatalytic Water Splitting – Clean Hydrogen is On the Way
The photocatalytic water splitting study represents a shift towards leveraging multiple clean energy strategies to achieve more power generation. You have to commend this team of engineers for helping expand the understanding of photocatalytic processes and demonstrating how they open the door for a new era in hydrogen production.
Learn about other clean energy developments here.
Studies Referenced:
1. Bao, N. T. G., Trang, T. N. Q., Thoai, N., Phan, T. B., Thu, V. T. H., & Hung, N. T. (2025). Rational design 2D heterobilayers transition-metal dichalcogenide and their Janus for efficient water splitting. ACS Applied Energy Materials, 8(8), 5209–5221. https://doi.org/10.1021/acsaem.5c00175