Visiting researcher from UNIFE at UAB to explore the optimization of bismuth vanadate photoanodes
Alberto Magliocco, researcher from the University of Ferrara (UNIFE), recently completed a one-month research stay at the Autonomous University of Barcelona (UAB) to advance his PhD project. His current research project focuses on optimizing bismuth vanadate photoanodes for use in the final SOREC2 photoelectrochemical (PEC) cell, enabling efficient sunlight-driven water oxidation.
During his stay at UAB, which started at the end of November 2024, Magliocco collaborated closely with members of the Catsynanomat group, under the supervision of Prof. Carolina Gimbert Suriñach. He worked on preparing and characterizing bismuth vanadate photoanodes samples functionalized with metal-containing catalytic layers. This collaboration allowed Magliocco to combine UNIFE’s expertise in bismuth vanadate preparation and advanced photoelectrochemistry characterization with the Catsynanomat group’s expertise in synthesizing active catalytic layers.
Magliocco’s research work at UAB involved two main phases. In the first phase, he focused on functionalizing bismuth vanadate photoanodes with catalytic layers, following the guidance of Catsynanomat researchers. His strategy included depositing either cobalt or nickel-containing layers onto the photoanodes.
In the second phase, all fabricated samples were tested in a PEC cell to evaluate their solar-to-chemical conversion efficiency. These tests were conducted at the laboratories of the Organic Nanostructured Photovoltaics group at the Institute of Photonic Sciences (ICFO), utilizing artificial solar irradiation.
Preliminary data from these tests revealed that bismuth vanadate photoanodes with catalytic active layers exhibited a remarkable increase in photocurrent compared to pristine bismuth vanadate photoanodes.
“Higher photocurrents indicate that incident light photons are more effectively converted into chemical products, demonstrating the catalytic layer is active and enhances the water oxidation reaction occurring at the photoanode’s surface,” explained Magliocco.
A valuable experience for research and career development
This research stay provided Magliocco with valuable hands-on experience. He learned new synthetic techniques, while also applying his existing knowledge to synthesize novel materials.
Moving forward, Magliocco will concentrate on further characterizing the photoanodes prepared at the Catsynanomat group and evaluating their performance within the SOREC2 PEC cell lab-scale prototype.
“Beyond the valuable research conducted and the results achieved, I greatly enjoyed the opportunity to connect with professors, researchers, and PhD students, expanding my professional network within the scientific community,” said Magliocco.
“This short-stay was intended to widen the number of alternative photoanodic materials to be implemented in SOREC2’s PEC device. Alberto definitely benefitted of this experience because it gave him the possibility to approach different kinds of synthetic techniques for the preparation of water oxidation catalysts and to couple them with BVO interfaces. Furthermore, I believe that spending time abroad is a valuable personal and cultural enrichment for anyone!”, said Professor Serena Berardi from UNIFE, who supervises Alberto’s PhD project.
Alberto’s stay at UAB is part of the internationalization activities undertaken within the framework of the SOREC2 project, fostering stronger bonds and collaborations among researchers from different countries.
