Junction and energy band on novel semiconductor-based fuel cells

Fuel cells are highly efficient and green power sources. The typical membrane electrode assembly is necessary for common electrochemical devices. Recent research and development in solid oxide fuel cells have opened up many new opportunities based on the semiconductor or its heterostructure materials. Semiconductor-based fuel cells (SBFCs) realize the fuel cell functionality in a much more straightforward way. This work aims to discuss new strategies and scientific principles of SBFCs by reviewing various novel junction-types/interfaces, i.e., bulk and planar p-n junction, Schottky junction and n-i type interface contact. New designing methodologies of SBFCs from energy band/alignment and built-in electric field (BIEF) which block the internal electronic transport while assisting interfacial superionic transport, and subsequently enhance device performance, are comprehensively reviewed. This work highlights the recent advances of SBFCs and provides new methodology and understanding with significant importance for both fundamental and applied R&D on new-generation fuel cell materials and technologies.