Photocatalytic water splitting

This article is about the photocatalytic system. For related systems, see Electrolysis of water and Photoelectrolysis of water.

Photocatalytic water splitting is a process that uses photocatalysis for the dissociation of water (H2O) into hydrogen (H
2) and oxygen (O
2). The inputs are light energy (photons) and water. The process, still more hypothetical than practical, depends on catalyst(s). Photocatalytic water splitting is inspired by photosynthesis, which converts water and carbon dioxide into oxygen and carbohydrates. Water splitting using solar radiation has not been commercialized.

Photocatalytic water splitting is achieved by irradiation of an aqueous dispersion of particles of photocatalysts. They are unlike Photoelectrochemical cell. Hydrogen fuel production using water and light (photocatalytic water splitting), instead of petroleum, is an important renewable energy strategy.

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