Ruddlesden-Popper compounds (SrO)(LaFeO3)n (n = 1 and 2) as p-type semiconductors for photocatalytic hydrogen production

Here we report two Ruddlesden-Popper type ferrite perovskites (SrO)(LaFeO 3 ) n (n   =   1 and 2) which demonstrate p-type semiconductivity. Their crystal structure, optical absorption and other physicochemical properties have been systematically explored. Our results show that both ferrites crystallize in tetragonal symmetry with structural lamination along c axis. Efficient photocatalytic hydrogen production has been achieved for both samples under full range and visible light illumination. Better performance is noticed for LaSrFeO 4 with apparent quantum efficiency approaches 0.31% and 0.19% under full range and visible light illumination, respectively. The p-type semiconductivity is verified by their cathodic photocurrent as well as negative Mott-Schottky slop during Photoelectrochemical measurement. The relative lower activity for La 2 SrFe 2 O 7 compared to LaSrFeO 4 is likely due to its higher defect concentration which facilitates charge recombination. Both compounds exhibit anisotropic phenomenon for charge migrations according to theoretical calculations. Their p-type semiconductivity, strong visible light absorption, chemical inertness and high abundance of constituent elements signify promising applications in the field of solar energy conversion and optoelectronics.