Iron Polypyridyl Complexes for Photocatalytic Hydrogen Generation

Inorg Chem. 2016 Sep 6;55(17):8865-70. doi: 10.1021/acs.inorgchem.6b01413. Epub 2016 Aug 22.

Abstract

A series of Fe(III) complexes were recently reported that are stable and active electrocatalysts for reducing protons into hydrogen gas. Herein, we report the incorporation of these electrocatalysts into a photocatalytic system for hydrogen production. Hydrogen evolution is observed when these catalysts are paired with fluorescein (chromophore) and triethylamine (sacrificial electron source) in a 1:1 ethanol:water mixture. The photocatalytic system is highly active and stable, achieving TONs > 2100 (with respect to catalyst) after 24 h. Catalysis proceeds through a reductive quenching pathway with a quantum yield of over 3%.