1.4
Photocatalysis
Keywords
Photocatalysis, water-splitting, hydrogen production
Expertise
Many chemical reactions – from natural photosynthesis to
laser-activated cancer drug – are powered by absorbing
energy from light. These reactions can be made possible
or faster using photocatalysts.
A research team within the University specialises in
synthesis, characterisation and testing of new photo-
catalysts, especially metal oxide, oxynitride and nitride
powders. This can speed up the photodegradation of
organic pollutants and the splitting of water into oxygen
and hydrogen by sunlight.
The group is interested in complex oxide materials
that improve the performance of photocatalysts materials,
and the development of so-called ‘Z scheme’ multicatalyst
systems which mimics the transport of electrons during
photosynthesis. The group also have the capability to
synthesis thin film photocatalysts by Pulsed Laser
Deposition and test for destruction of microbes.
Capabilities and facilities
•
Extensive powder synthesis facilities, including:
•
Thin film deposition:
•
Photocatalysis testing
•
Theoretical modelling:
Relevant centres and groups
•
Stephenson Institute for Renewable Energy
•
Centre for Materials Discovery
•
Knowledge Centre for Materials Chemistry.
Energy & Sustainability
72
Also see:
Materials, Advanced Design &
Manufacturing –
2.6
Catalysis, page 94
4.4
High-throughput materials
discovery, page 104
It is crucial that we develop
technologies to generate hydrogen
from renewable resources such as
water. Fundamental research is
required to fully understand the
materials chemistry properties of
novel photocatalysts so we can
design improved catalyst systems
and make these technologies
commercially viable.
For further information
on all our specialist
centres, facilities and
laboratories
go to page
179
