Solar water splitting with earth abundant metal oxides

This project aims to investigate and develop novel metal oxide coatings that can absorb sunlight and convert it into chemical energy by splitting water into hydrogen and oxygen, therefore producing clean fuel (hydrogen) with very limited greenhouse gases emissions, at a low cost.

The materials targeted are earth abundant, nontoxic and cheap, such as iron oxide (hematite) and various ferrites. 

Dates (start - end)

January 2022 to December 2026

Project outcomes

The outcomes of the project are the development of a series of materials and coatings able to provide direct conversion of water to hydrogen and oxygen using sunlight as the driving force, targeting 10% solar-to-hydrogen (STH) conversion efficiency. 

Key people

Relevant collaborators

  • University of South Australia
  • CSIRO
  • CNR (National Research Council of Italy)
  • Circular Materials 

Funding source

  • Australian Research Council
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Acknowledgement of Country

RMIT University acknowledges the people of the Woi wurrung and Boon wurrung language groups of the eastern Kulin Nation on whose unceded lands we conduct the business of the University. RMIT University respectfully acknowledges their Ancestors and Elders, past and present. RMIT also acknowledges the Traditional Custodians and their Ancestors of the lands and waters across Australia where we conduct our business - Artwork 'Luwaytini' by Mark Cleaver, Palawa.

aboriginal flag
torres strait flag

Acknowledgement of Country

RMIT University acknowledges the people of the Woi wurrung and Boon wurrung language groups of the eastern Kulin Nation on whose unceded lands we conduct the business of the University. RMIT University respectfully acknowledges their Ancestors and Elders, past and present. RMIT also acknowledges the Traditional Custodians and their Ancestors of the lands and waters across Australia where we conduct our business.