Spectral radiative analysis of bio-inspired H2 production in a benchmark photoreactor: a first investigation using spatial photonic balance

TL;DR

This study investigates the spectral radiative properties of a bio-inspired catalyst in a photoreactor, demonstrating a linear relationship between light absorption and hydrogen production, indicating potential for scalable H2 generation.

Contribution

It introduces a novel spectral radiative analysis method for bio-inspired H2 production in a benchmark photoreactor, linking light absorption to reaction rates.

Findings

H2 production rate is proportional to absorbed light

Spectral analysis confirms linear thermokinetic coupling

Bio-inspired catalyst shows promise for large-scale H2 production

Abstract

The iron thiolate complex is a simplified model of the active site of diiron hydrogenase enzymes. Here, we describe the implementation of this noble metal free catalyst in aqueous solutions using eosin Y as photosensitizer and triethylamine as an electron donor in an experimental bench specially designed for the study of H2 photoproduction. The bench is composed of an adjustable visible light source, a fully equipped flat torus photoreactor and analytical devices. Rates of H2 production under varied experimental conditions were obtained from an accurate measurement of pressure increase. A spectral radiative analysis involving blue photons of the source primarily absorbed has been carried out. Results have proven the rate of H2 production is proportional to the mean volumetric rate of radiant light absorbed demonstrating a linear thermokinetic coupling. The bio-inspired catalyst has proven non-limiting and reveals interesting capabilities for future large scale H2 production.