Photocatalytic hydrogen production from seawater by TiO2/RuO2 hybrid nanofiber with enhanced light absorption

Compared to hydrogen production through pure water photocatalysis , the direct utilization of seawater for hydrogen production aligns better with the principles of sustainable development. Seawater, however, contains impurity ions like Na + and Cl − , which pose higher demands on photocatalysts . It is widely acknowledged that RuO 2 and TiO 2 demonstrate excellent stability in seawater . Consequently, this study focuses on the model system of RuO 2 -modified TiO 2 for investigating hydrogen production in simulated seawater. TiO 2 /RuO 2 nanofibers (NFs) were synthesized via a one-step electrospinning method, ensuring intimate contact between the two components. The hydrogen production activity of TiO 2 /RuO 2 NFs in simulated seawater nearly matches that in pure water. Remarkably, RuO 2 serves as an oxidation cocatalyst, effectively scavenging holes from the valence band of TiO 2 and enhancing the separation efficiency of electrons and holes. Interestingly, Cl − ions, similar to RuO 2 , contribute to reducing excess holes. This study lays the groundwork for future research into hydrogen production from seawater.