SYNTHESIS OF SOLID COMPOUNDS OF Fe$_2$O$_3$–Nb$_2$ AND INVESTIGATION OF THEIR ELECTROPHYSICAL AND PHOTOELECTROCHEMICAL PROPERTIES

Abstract

The efficiency of the solar energy conversion by water photoelectrolysis method is mainly determined by the properties of the semiconductors photoanode which performs function of photocataliser. One of the perspective ways of optimization of these parameters is the usage of the new triple- and four-compound metal-oxide. For this purpose solid solutions of different compounds in Fe₂O₃– Nb₂O₅ system are synthesized. The electrophysical and electrochemical properties of the synthesized samples are studied. It is shown that the electrodes made on the base of homogeneous solid solution of FeNbO₄ provide efficient photoelectrolysis process at the most optimal combination of important parameters.