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U.S. Department of Energy
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Superlattice photoelectrodes for photoelectrochemical cells

Patent ·
OSTI ID:5556877
The application of superlattice semiconductors as photoelectrodes in photoelectrochemical energy conversion processes is described. The invention is comprised of a multiple quantum well, or superlattice, semiconductor positioned on a plate and encapsulated in an insulation material, except the top surface, which is left exposed. An opening in insulation exposes a portion of the plate. When the photoelectrochemical cell is immersed in a liquid electrolyte and exposed to solar radiation, a redox reaction occurs, producing gases such as hydrogen and oxygen from a water electrolyte, which bubble off the cathode and anode portions of the cell. (LEW)
Research Organization:
Solar Energy Research Inst., Golden, CO (USA)
DOE Contract Number:
AC02-83CH10093
Assignee:
Dept. of Energy
Patent Number(s):
None
Application Number:
ON: DE86013695
OSTI ID:
5556877
Country of Publication:
United States
Language:
English