PII.085 Unveiling enhanced green hydrogen generation: Constructing a photocatalytic hybrid system by physical enrichment

Resumo

This study presents photocatalytic systems comprised of gold nanoparticles (AuNPs) immobilized by ionic liquids (IL) with remarkable efficacy, and versatility in facilitating hydrogen evolution reactions (HER) through water-splitting (WSR) or organic photo reforming (OPR). Obtaining these highly efficient photocatalysts involves the combination of two promising approaches: magnetron sputtering and IL superficial covering, creating hybrid materials with direct metal-TiO₂ interfaces. Under the investigated conditions, the AuNPs (Ø_mean=4-10 nm) presence profoundly enhances the photocatalytic activity of the pristine TiO₂ in methanol photo reforming (MPR) producing from 0.02 up to 8.25 mmol of H₂ per gram of catalyst per hour. This remarkable difference is attributed to the synergistic interaction of the tricomponent IL-metal-TiO₂ surface, leading to a robust modification of the electronic and photophysical properties. Our investigation systematically explores the impact of factors such as nanoparticle size, IL composition, photophysical effect, scavenger agent, and the sequence of local deposition on the surface. This comprehensive approach sheds light on the intricate mechanisms underlying the increased efficiency of the photocatalytic system in the quest for an ideal one.

Keywords: enhanced HER, ionic liquids, gold nanoparticles, titanium dioxide, photocatalysis.