Mechanisms of Photochemical CO2 Reduction in Quantum-Dot/Molecular Catalyst Materials.

Research question

We seek to determine and understand the catalytic cycle for photocatalytic CO2 reduction by hybrid materials of inorganic quantum dots (QDs) with molecular catalysts. We want to understand the QD-catalyst interface and interactions, coupling and electron transfer dynamics. We also want to know if it is possible to obtain and observe multi-electron electron transfer to the catalyst by carrier multiplication, which would be truly novel, and what is the role of electron transfer from higher energy QD states to the catalyst.

Sustainability aspects

The project concerns fundamental science underpinning future systems for direct conversion of solar energy into renewable fuels, without using biomass (SDG7, SDG15). Photocatalytic particle-based systems have the potential to be relatively inexpensive compared to conventional photoelectrochemical panels, but their efficiency needs to be improved for large scale contribution to our energy needs. Direct CO2 reduction using solar energy, especially when coupled with direct air capture of CO2, can be used for production of renewable and sustainable fuels, chemicals and materials for a circular economy with net zero CO2 emissions (SDG13).