Molecular Coatings Improve the Selectivity and Durability of CO2 Reduction Chalcogenide Photocathodes

The quest for solar-driven conversion of carbon dioxide to chemicals and fuels hinges upon the identification of an efficient, durable, and selective photocathode. Chalcogenide p-type semiconductors exemplified by chalcopyrite Cu(In,Ga)Se₂ (CIGS) have been effectively deployed as photocathodes. However, selectivity toward CO₂ reduction and durability of the commonly used CdS adlayer remain primary challenges. Here, we demonstrate that for the wide band gap CuGa₃Se₅ chalcopyrite absorber these challenges are well addressed by an organic coating generated in situ from an N,N′-(1,4-phenylene)bispyridinium ditriflate salt in the electrolyte. The molecular additive provides a 30-fold increase in selectivity toward CO₂R products compared to the unmodified system and lowers Cd corrosion at least 10-fold. This dual functionality highlights the promise of hybrid solid-state-molecular photocathodes for enabling durable and efficient solar fuel systems.