Photosynthesis powers living cells through the photogeneration of electron-hole pairs to drive energy-demanding chemical reactions. Efforts to develop artificial, light-driven systems and to surpass the limits of photosynthetic efficiencies are faced by several challenges including how molecular interfaces, electron flux and potentials of electron transfer control the overall catalytic reaction. To address this we have been studying model systems that integrate reduction-oxidation enzymes with semiconductor nanoparticles to establish the principles and mechanisms controlling electron transfer and how these affect overall catalytic reaction rates. A combination of transient optical spectroscopy and steady-state infrared and paramagnetic techniques are being used to advance the understanding of how photoexcited electrons are coupled to enzymes to drive chemical reactions. A summary of our research progress on these topics will be presented.

Study of light-driven catalysis by enzyme-nanoparticle hybrids

253rd National Meeting (2017)

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