Semiconductor nanocrystals are remarkably strong and tunable absorbers of sunlight. When coupled with proton reduction catalysts, they have been shown to be capable of photochemical H2 generation. This presentation will focus on charge transfer dynamics between nanocrystals and catalysts and how these dynamics govern photochemical efficiencies. Two systems will be discussed: (i) biomimetic hybrids of nanocrystals and the enzyme hydrogenase, which catalyzes proton reduction, and (ii) nanocrystals functionalized with Ru-based water-oxidation catalysts. Our latest understanding of the dynamic processes that govern solar photochemistry in these systems will be discussed.

Excited state dynamics and solar photochemistry of semiconductor nanocrystals

246th National Meeting (2013)

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