With a narrower, direct band gap (2.4 eV) and proper band alignment with water oxidation potential, the monoclinic form of Bismuth vanadate| has garnered interest from researchers. Over time, it has been shown that V-rich and compact films are associated with higher photocurrent, or higher performance. Bismuth Vanadate has also been studied for solar  generation from seawater, which is much more difficult due to the presence of contaminating ions and a more harsh corrosive environment.