An inexpensive device that uses light to split water into oxygen and clean-burning hydrogen

Stanford scientists create a low-cost, long-lasting water splitter made of silicon and nickelStanford researchers have developed an inexpensive device that uses light to split water into oxygen and clean-burning hydrogen. The goal is to supplement solar cells with hydrogen-powered fuel cells that can generate electricity when the sun isn't shining or demand is high.By Mark Shwartz Stanford University scientists have created a silicon-based water splitter that is both low-cost and corrosion-free. The novel device – a silicon semiconductor coated in an ultrathin layer of nickel – could help pave the way for large-scale production of clean hydrogen fuel from sunlight, according to the scientists. "Solar cells only work when the sun is shining," said study co-author Hongjie Dai, a professor of chemistry at Stanford.



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