Smart Compounds, Systems and Research Methods in Artificial Photosynthesis

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The development of artificial devices working on the same principles as natural photosynthesis is considered a viable solution to the energy and environmental problems our society faces. However, the challenge in an artificial system is to integrate light harvesting and conversion with catalytic multi-electron redox processes, as well as to introduce the (auto)regeneration and protection mechanisms present in natural systems, but lacking in the artificial ones. In addition, the individual components of artificial photosynthetic systems (photosensitizers (PSs), catalysts, sacrificial electron donors (SEDs)) continue to have important drawbacks. To date, the solar to fuel conversion efficiency and/ or the life-time (stability/ robustness) of the artificial photosynthetic systems do not meet the parameters that allow their large-scale application. In addition, these systems are usually efficient but not selective or selective but not very efficient. Achieving high activities while retaining high selectivity is another important challenge. The development of my research program is proposed in three major directions: I) improved molecular photosensitizers (PS) and catalysts for artificial photosynthesis (e.g., stable water soluble PS with improved solar photon conversion; stable water soluble selective catalysts) - this represents an example of molecular approach - `Smart Chemistry Tools and Strategies' (SCTS) are used to improve the properties of individual compounds; II) hybrid photocatalytic systems for CO2 reduction and water splitting with pre-designed re-generation/protection features - pre-designed integration of smart compounds (e.g., molecular photosensitizers/ catalysts + smart polymers) - this is an approach focusing on system integration of compounds or processes - the SCTS are used as methods of combining/integration of the compounds or processes in a given system; III) development of `smart' photoreactors integrating automated and in situ measurement techniques. The proposed research program has a scientific impact, as well as an educational/academic one. The results will be of interest for the whole scientific community involved in energy conversion and related fields while the training of personnel in these sectors will be assisted. Realizing the objectives of this research program would bring advancements from the fundamental study of coordination complexes and proofs-of-principle in academic research, all the way to prototypes, and possibly to full-scale applications. Finally, the realization of the proposed project will prove the powerful capacity of academic research to contribute to sustainable development and to the global solutions needed to solve the major challenges society faces today, in line with Canadian and global priorities in term of education, research, environment and energy policies.