Exceptionally boosted absorption of silicates by interfacial junctions and direct light–heat–energy storage using Mg(OH)2–(Co2SiO4–Co3O4)

Rui Min Hao, En Xu Ren, Wei Ran, Zhi Bin Xu, Qin Pei Wu*

*Corresponding author for this work

Research output: Contribution to journalArticlepeer-review

Abstract

Near-infrared (NIR) light absorption is essential for the effective utilization of photothermal solar energy, which is realized via the surface plasmon resonance of a high density of free charge carriers (FCCs). Herein, we demonstrate that S-scheme interfacial junctions (IJs) can substantially increase the FCC density and intensify absorption of silicates from the ultraviolet to NIR region. Numerous p–n IJs with S-scheme types are constructed within sheet-like Co3O4–Co2SiO4 nanoparticles, exceptionally boosting the light absorption capability over the entire solar spectrum. Moreover, this absorber can improve the photothermal performance of Mg(OH)2 via a mixture of Mg(OH)2–(Co3O4–Co2SiO4) composite. The photothermal dehydration conversion of Mg(OH)2 in this mixture considerably improves by 6.7 times under 30-min irradiation. The reversibility of the photothermal hydration–dehydration cycles of Mg(OH)2 improves by 18.3 times, and the thermal storage kinetics substantially improves via the reduction of the activation energy of dehydration (reduction of 25.4 %). Results indicate that Mg(OH)2–Co3O4–Co2SiO4 is a promising candidate for a one-step system of photothermal conversion and energy storage.

Original languageEnglish
Article numbere01142
JournalSustainable Materials and Technologies
Volume42
DOIs
Publication statusPublished - Dec 2024

Keywords

  • Charge carriers
  • Cobalt
  • Interfacial junctions
  • Internal electric fields
  • Silicates
  • Solar energy

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