10:30-11:15

An Electronically Integrated TiO_2-xN_x + Au Nanocomposite for Solar H2 Generation

Minimization of charge recombination by decreasing the number of defects on photocatalytic materials is expected to increase the charge utilization. Charge diffusion from the point of origin to the active catalytic sites requires a porous framework with active metal suitably incorporated in it. Our recent efforts in combining the above two factors led to a active catalyst for solar hydrogen generation by electronically integrating nanogold clusters with disordered mesoporous TiO_2-xN_x (Au-NT). Au-NT nanocomposite materials exhibit solar H₂ generation (1.5 mmol h^-1g^-1) from aqueous methanol. Various factors involved in improving the photocatalytic activity will be discussed in the presentation.

Speaker

Dr. Chinnakonda S. Gopinath, Catalysis Division and Center of Excellence on Surface Science, National Chemical Laboratory, India

Chair

Dr. Katsuhiko Ariga, MANA PI, MANA, NIMS