Transition metal oxides are among the most promising materials for the conversion of solar energy into electricity (photovoltaics) or into chemical energy such as the splitting of water (photocatalysis). Their structure makes them ideal for generation, transport and trapping of charge carriers, such as electrons and electron holes. Titanium dioxide is a promising transition metal oxide, but determining its electron dynamics at room temperature has proven very difficult. EPFL scientists have solved the problem by using X-ray absorption spectroscopy (XAS). Published in Scientific Reports, the study reveals new information about electron movement in the surface region of titanium dioxide, opening new potential for photovoltaic and photocatalytic systems.

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