Artificial photosynthesis aims to mimic the natural processes by which plants convert solar energy into highly energetic species, offering a sustainable route to generate chemical fuels such as hydrogen and carbon dioxide reduction products in an environmental-friendly fashion. This chapter highlights the transformative role of redox-active ligands in the development of molecular catalysts for electro- and photo-driven hydrogen evolution (HER) and CO₂ reduction reactions (CO₂RR). Redox-active ligands, once considered chemical curiosities, are now recognized as essential components in the development of transition metal-based catalysts for solar fuels generation. Their incorporation into first-row transition metal complexes allows for the fine-tuning of catalytic properties, often achieving performances comparable to noble metal systems while maintaining cost-effectiveness. Drawing inspiration from natural metalloenzymes, the chapter illustrates how redox-active ligands facilitate both electron transfer and bond activation processes, expanding the mechanistic landscape of artificial photosynthesis. Experimental methodologies including electrochemical and photochemical assays are briefly presented as tools for evaluating catalyst performance. The challenges and opportunities associated with these systems are discussed, with a focus on the design principles that underpin efficient and robust catalytic function for solar fuel production.
Earth-abundant molecular catalysts with polypyridyl redox-active ligands in artificial photosynthesis: From leaf to lab
M. Natali
;
2025
Abstract
Artificial photosynthesis aims to mimic the natural processes by which plants convert solar energy into highly energetic species, offering a sustainable route to generate chemical fuels such as hydrogen and carbon dioxide reduction products in an environmental-friendly fashion. This chapter highlights the transformative role of redox-active ligands in the development of molecular catalysts for electro- and photo-driven hydrogen evolution (HER) and CO₂ reduction reactions (CO₂RR). Redox-active ligands, once considered chemical curiosities, are now recognized as essential components in the development of transition metal-based catalysts for solar fuels generation. Their incorporation into first-row transition metal complexes allows for the fine-tuning of catalytic properties, often achieving performances comparable to noble metal systems while maintaining cost-effectiveness. Drawing inspiration from natural metalloenzymes, the chapter illustrates how redox-active ligands facilitate both electron transfer and bond activation processes, expanding the mechanistic landscape of artificial photosynthesis. Experimental methodologies including electrochemical and photochemical assays are briefly presented as tools for evaluating catalyst performance. The challenges and opportunities associated with these systems are discussed, with a focus on the design principles that underpin efficient and robust catalytic function for solar fuel production.I documenti in SFERA sono protetti da copyright e tutti i diritti sono riservati, salvo diversa indicazione.
