Semiconductor Electrodes (Hardcover)

Semiconductors have been studied as electrodes in electrochemical systems since the mid-1950's. However, it was not until the 1970's that the search for alternative energy sources, especially solar energy, led to an enormous expansion in semiconductor electrode research. One attractive option for solar energy conversion is the semiconductor liquid-junction solar cell, which can be designed to produce either electrical power or fuel such as hydrogen. Consequently the number of papers published concerning semiconductor electrodes has rapidly increased. Previous books have principally focused on the underlying theory (largely from solid state physics) and principles of operation of all semiconductor electrodes. It therefore seemed both useful and appropriate to review the field with the intention of collating information for each semiconductor or family of semiconductors, with contributions from authors who are all recognized experts in their field. Each chapter is devoted to critically assessing the recent literature on a particular semiconductor or family of semiconductors.