A Photochemical CO2 Reduction Over Supported Single Atom Catalyst: A Knowledge Driven Approach From Molecular to Heterogeneous Catalysis

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Mitigating CO2 to minimize the steady rise in global temperature is a pressing topic and the scientific community is putting every effort to reduce CO2 emissions from major point sources such as steel or cement industries. This research proposal investigates the photochemical reduction of CO2 with single-atom catalysts (SACs) of 1st-row transition metals incorporated in light-absorbing host matrices like C3N4 or porphyrinic materials. A knowledge-driven interdisciplinary approach from a molecular catalyst to a supported catalyst will systematically address issues like (a) how an efficient SAC can be synthesized, (b) the mechanism of CO2 reduction over SACs, (c) the dynamic behavior of atoms via tracking the active center (change in oxidation state, symmetry, and bond distances) with operando spectroscopic investigations such as FTIR and X-Ray absorption spectroscopy. 1st-row transition metal complexes are active for the photochemical reduction of CO2; this research proposal investigates the synthesis of heterogeneous analogs of these metals (Mn, Fe, Co, Ni, and Cu) as SACs. After a successful grant application, Dr. Bidyut Bikash Sarma (researcher) will be able to explore a new field of research in the group of Prof. Erwin Reisner (host). A two-way knowledge transfer between the host group (expertise in photocatalysis and artificial photosynthesis) and the researcher (expertise in surface science and operando spectroscopy) will bring new ideas that will benefit both parties.