Plasmonic Ag nanowires sensitized ZnO flake-like structures as a potential photoanode material for enhanced visible light water splitting activity

Silver nanowires (AgNWs) functionalized ZnO flake-like (ZnO/AgNWs) morphological heterostructures were developed as a promising photoanode by facile RF magnetron sputtering and polyol methods. Herein, we demonstrate the role of rationally tailored AgNWs weight concentration (0, 0.03, 0.05 and 0.07 g) on ZnO flake-like morphology for enhanced visible-light-driven photoelectrochemical (PEC) water splitting activity. From XRD studies, ZnO (002) facets were effectively influenced by the selective growth of Ag (111) facets. Notably, XPS studies reveal the strong correlation between AgNWs and ZnO, showing a significant red shift in Zn 2p and O is levels and blue shift in Ag 3d level. Whereas, surface hydroxyl groups (OH) were originated on ZnO/AgNWs heterostructure, which acts as light trapping states. Interestingly, FESEM images comprise AgNWs distribution on ZnO flake-like morphology, which suggests AgNWs are most accessible networks at the interface of ZnO. As a result, we observed significant variation in the optical transmittance and matching band gap for strong visible light absorption. In conclusion, selective growth of AgNWs-0.05 g on ZnO promoted the strong interface reaction kinetics with impressive photoconversion efficiency (0.38%). Thus, developing of unique flake-like/nanowire morphological features underlined to be crucial interest in energy conversion applications.