PHOTOINDUCED HYDROGEN-PRODUCTION FROM AQUEOUS-SOLUTION - FRONTIERS AND NEW TRENDS

Different possible pathways for the photochemical conversion of light energy, based on light induced electron transfer are described. Select ive catalysis with homogeneous H-2 catalysts are proposed as improveme nt for the light induced hydrogen formation. Two novel Co(II)polypyrid inium (Co(pdt)(3)(2+) and Co(tpp)(2)(2+)) catalysts have been develope d and were successfully used as homogeneous catalysts for light induce d hydrogen production with Ru(bpy)(3)(2+) as a photosensitizer and asc orbic acid as a sacrificial electron donor. Initial quantum yields (ph i(1/2H2)) were up to 20% for Co(pdt)(3)(2+). (C) 1997 International As sociation for Hydrogen Energy. All rights reserved.