A series of Fe(III) complexes were recently reported that are stable and active electrocatalysts for reducing protons into hydrogen gas. These complexes displayed a range of activity and overpotential (300-800 mV). Owing to the stability and activity of these complexes, we sought to develop a photocatalytic system for hydrogen production that incorporates these catalysts. Hydrogen evolution is observed when the iron catalysts are paired with fluorescein (chromophore) and triethylamine (sacrificial electron donor) in a 1:1 ethanol:water mixture. Interestingly, the most active electrocatalyst is not the most active photocatalyst. The photocatalytic system is highly active overall, achieving 2100 TONs over 24 hours of irradiation with quantum yields ranging from 3-5%.

Iron complexes for hydrogen generation from aqueous solutions

254th National Meeting (2017)

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