A team of researchers developed a novel photocatalytic platform that could facilitate hydrogen mass production.
Photocatalytically Harvested Hydrogen as a Promising Green Energy Source
According to Phys, the researchers' study on a specific photocatalytic platform enabled a floatable photocatalytic matrix to be developed. This matrix allows for an efficient evolution reaction of hydrogen that offers clear benefits compared to typical hydrogen production.
The study was published in Nature Nanotechnology. With global challenges on the rise, the value of alternative energy has also skyrocketed, as reported by Azo Nano. While there are several alternative energy sources, photocatalytically harvested hydrogen is dramatically highlighted due to its sustainable production of green energy.
Though much effort has been exerted to boost photocatalysts' intrinsic reaction efficiency, photocatalytic systems' form factor has not been an active object of study.
Novel Nanocomposite Hydrogel
Unlike the current systems, the photocatalytic platform designed by the team from the Nanoparticle Research at the Institute for Basic Science (IBS) in Seoul, South Korea, was able to come up with a new photocatalytic platform type. This platform floats atop the water to enable efficient hydrogen production.
The platform's structure comprises bilayers, with an upper photocatalytic one and a supporting lower one. The two layers consist of a structural polymer that is porous and that offers the platform high surface tension.
As for its form, the platform is made to be a cryo aerogel, a solid substance that holds gas inside. This makes it less dense. Because of this, the "elastomer-hydrogen" that has photocatalysts may float atop the water.
The platform demonstrates clear benefits regarding the evolution reaction of photocatalytic hydrogen. For one, the prevention of water-caused light attenuation is allowed. This results in the efficient conversion of solar energy.
Another benefit is that the gaseous hydrogen can easily diffuse into the atmosphere. This leads to preserving high reaction yield and avoiding "reverse oxidation reactions."
Moreover, due to the porosity of the platform, water can easily be offered to the catalysts within the matrix. On top of this, stable immobilization of the catalysts within the matrix can be done even without problems with leaching.
The team was able to demonstrate the superior performance and scalability of the platform. Moreover, even after spending two weeks operating in seawater with floating matter and different microorganisms, the platform's performance of hydrogen evolution was not compromised.
Professor Hyeon Taeghwan, the research leader, notes that the study offers great advancements in photocatalysis and demonstrates how green hydrogen production in the sea could be a huge possibility. Professor Hyeon also adds that the unique platform, which showcases wide applicability and great performance in photocatalysis, could open a new chapter in the field of alternative energy.
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