Green hydrogen generation using mushroom-like shape bismuth molybdate-bismuth oxide/poly(1 H-pyrrole) core-shell nanocomposite from sanitation water

Abstract

A novel Bi2MoO6-Bi2O3/P1HP core-shell (C-S) nanocomposite photocathode has been successfully synthesized using a two-step process, resulting in a unique mushroom-like morphology with rough, agglomerated structures (~ 200 nm). XRD analysis confirms its nanoscale crystallite size (~ 35 nm), while optical studies reveal broad absorption extending from the visible to infrared range, with an optimized bandgap of 1.75 eV. The photocathode demonstrates exceptional hydrogen production efficiency when applied for H₂ generation using sanitation water as an electrolyte. A high hydrogen evolution rate of 2.5 µmol h-1 cm-2 is achieved, with current density (Jph) measurements confirming its strong performance under various lighting conditions. Under full-spectrum white light, Jph reaches − 0.45 mA/cm², while at 340 nm, it remains stable at -0.42 mA/cm², indicating consistent activity across different wavelengths. These findings highlight the dual benefits of this nanocomposite: efficient, eco-friendly hydrogen production while repurposing wastewater. With its broad optical absorption, cost-effective fabrication, and high photocatalytic efficiency, this innovative photocathode emerges as a promising solution for sustainable hydrogen generation.