Utilizing thermodynamic hydricity as a guide, [HPt(depe)2]+ (depe = 1,2-bis(diethylphosphino)ethane) was rationally chosen as a molecular electrocatalyst for both the reduction of CO2 to formate as well as the reverse reaction, formate oxidation. The catalytic activity of [HPt(depe)2]+ was assessed utilizing controlled potential electrolysis and quantifying the reduced and oxidized products (formate and CO2, respectively). By independently synthesizing the potential intermediates along the catalytic pathway and subjecting them to stoichiometric reactions, the free energies of each elementary step were determined. To our knowledge, this catalyst is the first reported homogeneous, molecular electrocatalyst capable of reversible CO2/formate conversion.

Reversible CO2/formate conversion by a homogeneous platinum electrocatalyst

2019 Fall National Meeting

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