Japanese scientists unveiled a proof-of-concept reactor that can turn sunlight and water into renewable hydrogen fuel.
This 1,076-square-foot (100-square-meter) reactor uses photocatalytic sheets to split oxygen and hydrogen atoms in water molecules.
The most efficient method is the two-step excitation system. It involves two photocatalysts that extract hydrogen and oxygen from water separately.
Kazunari and Hisatomi created a proof-of-concept reactor that produces more hydrogen energy from sunlight than from laboratory conditions.
“The solar energy conversion efficiency was about one and a half times higher under natural sunlight,” said first study author Hisatomi.
The research team says they need more efficient photocatalysts and larger reactors to breach the 5% barrier.
They also need more real-world experiments to make more practical hydrogen energy reactors.
Nevertheless, Japan is getting closer to this reality as its private and public sectors work together to realize this renewable dream.
“A transition to a green and competitive energy structure can only happen with work across sectors and strengthening public-private partnerships to efficiently implement affordable hydrogen energy.”