Our work in the reduction of carbon dioxide has led to the discovery of a molecular electrocatalyst, Re(bipy-tBu2)(CO)3Cl, that efficiently catalyzes the two electron reduction of carbon dioxide to carbon monoxide with high turnover number and high turnover frequency on a glassy carbon working electrode.  Aiming to drive the CO2 reduction process using solar energy; a p-type hydrogen terminated silicon/catalyst junction is used.  Photovoltages exceeding 600 mV are achieved, with a solar to chemical energy conversion efficiency of 10%, and a Faradaic efficiency for reduction of CO2 to CO of ~100%.  Surface modification of p-type Si with conjugated molecules (e.g. styrene) leads to a significantly higher rate of catalysis when compared to a glassy carbon electrode.  Recent results from this project will be presented.

Photoelectrochemical reduction of carbon dioxide

241st National Meeting (2011)

The official archive and repository for all ACS Meetings & Expositions abstracts and select posters or presentations.