As2O3-poly(1H-pyrrole) nanocomposite for hydrogen generation from Red Sea water with high efficiencey

Abstract

This research focuses on the synthesis of a new composite material, As2O3-poly(1H-pyrrole) (P1HP), for the generation of hydrogen gas. The novelty lies in the utilization of eco-friendly and cost-effective seawater as the source of hydrogen gas. The study aims to develop a sustainable and efficient approach for hydrogen production using this novel composite material and seawater as the raw materials. The As2O3/P1HP nanocomposite is synthesized through the polymerization of 1H-pyrrole. The crystal structure and size of the nanocomposite are determined using XRD analysis, which indicates a lattice constant of 11.06 Å and a crystallite size of 4.03 nm via the Scherer equation. The surface topography is visualized using SEM and TEM, revealing the presence of both large agglomerate particles and very small particles with a size of approximately 21 nm. The nanocomposite exhibits excellent optical absorption behavior and a small bandgap of 1.73 eV, making it suitable for hydrogen generation using Red Sea water as an electrolyte. The hydrogen production rate is measured to be 21 μmole cm−1.h, while the current density (Jph) values with and without incidence light are −0.24 and −0.05 mA.cm−2, respectively. The Jph values increase from −0.09 to −0.15 mA.cm−2 as the incidence photon wavelengths increase from 440 to 730 nm, indicating an enhancement in the rate of hydrogen generation. The use of low-cost materials and a natural source of electrolyte make this approach a promising candidate for renewable energy production and hydrogen gas generation.