Supramolecular photocatalysts of the architecture [{(bpy)2Ru(dpp)}2RhBr2]5+ were developed by Prof. Karen J. Brewer for photocatalytic hydrogen production. In collaboration with Prof. Robert B. Moore, these complexes have been incorporated in the ionomer membrane Nafion® to study hydrogen production. In addition to studying the catalytic properties of the metal complexes, the large cations have provided insight about the ionomer morphology and kinetics of ion exchange between the photocatalysts and the ionomer. Understanding the ionomer-catalyst interactions could provide important information, useful for enhancing catalytic efficiency. Furthermore, the incorporation of the [{(bpy)2Ru(dpp)}2RhBr2]5+ complex in a Nafion® ionomer/carbon fiber composite has been explored for photoelectrocatalytic hydrogen production. The ionomer has been shown to inhibit thermal decomposition of the complex and enhance photocatalytic performance. In addition, recent results suggest the carbon fiber is behaving as an electron donor in the composite assemblies.

Ru,Rh,Ru supramolecular photocatalysts in Nafion® membranes

251st National Meeting (2016)

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