CNR-Dongguk University (Seoul, South Korea) Joint Laboratories
Title: Dye-sensitized photoelectrochemical cells for hydrogen production coupled with selective alcohol oxidation and biomass valorization.
ICCOM Principal Investigator: Lorenzo Zani.
Project type: International.
Duration: 01/05/2025 – 31/12/2027.
Abstract: Production of carbon-neutral fuels by exploitation of renewable energy sources has become a topic of utmost scientific and technological relevance. In this context, our project aims to investigate the solar light-driven production of green hydrogen in dye-sensitized photoelectrochemical cells (DS-PEC), coupling it with the synthesis of value-added organic chemicals by selective oxidation processes. We will explore the design, synthesis and characterization of new organic dyes having a D-π-A structure, and will use them to sensitize TiO2-based photoanodes towards visible light absorption. In addition, we will study their combination with organic redox shuttles designed to mediate the electron transfer processes with the selected substrates. As anodic reactions, we will consider the valorization of biomass-derived substrates and the oxidation of renewable alcohols, serving as potential substrates for the production of economically valuable chemicals. DS-PECs will be assembled combining the new photoanodes with Pt-cathodes for H2 generation, and their performances in terms of solar fuel generation coupled with substrate oxidation will be measured and optimized.
Partnership: CNR-ICCOM, Dongguk University (Seoul, South Korea, Prof. J.-J. Lee).
ICCOM participants: Massimo Calamante, Alessio Dessì, Daniele Franchi, Lorenzo Zani.
Financed by: Consiglio Nazionale delle Ricerche, project code no. 13502.
Project overall budget: 150.000 €.
ICCOM budget: 150.000 €.
CUP: