Harnessing first row transition metal complexes for photocatalytic hydrogen evolution reactions

My Ph.D. research with Prof. Hanan focuses on developing first-row (3d) transition metal complexes as photosensitizers for photocatalytic hydrogen evolution reaction (PHER). This is crucial due to the depletion of fossil fuel reserves. PHER is crucial in global material, physical, and chemical science research. We are designing organic ligands to fine-tune the coordination sphere of 3d metal complexes, enhancing lifetime of their photo-excited states. While second and third-row transition metal photosensitizers, such as tris(2,2′-bipyridine)ruthenium(II) hexafluorophosphate, have been extensively studied over the past 50 years, interest in abundant 3d metal counterparts is recent as these are less toxic and economic. Understanding their luminescent properties is critical for optimizing PHER processes. This internship aims to explore the photophysical pathways of luminescent Cobalt(III) complexes synthesized in Prof. Hanan’s lab using transient absorption spectroscopy (TAS), luminescence studies, and lifetime measurements. TAS is an efficient and powerful technique not available in University of Montreal. It will help us understand the role of photo-excited states in PHER. Additionally, Prof. Campagna’s lab at the University of Messina, working on analogous iron(III) complexes, will benefit from our collaboration enhancing our understanding of fundamental photophysics of these novel complexes for advancements in PHER and related photoredox chemistry.

Faculty Supervisor:

Garry S. Hanan

Student:

Partner:

University of Messina

Discipline:

Physics

Sector:

Green/Alternative Energy; Sustainability & the Environment; Natural Resources

University:

Université de Montréal

Program: