In our latest article in Applied Catalysis B: Environmental, we explored the fascinating world of photoreforming, using the ZnxIn2S3+x catalyst which found to be a promising candidate for alcohol photoreforming, leveraging C-H activation and C-C coupling processes to transform furfuryl alcohol into hydrofuroin and clean H2. Through extensive experimentation, we unravelled the complex structure-activity-selectivity relationships of ZnxIn2S3+x with varying Zn:In:S ratios, all under visible light.

Our findings highlight the role of S-• radicals as the catalyst's active sites responsible for the crucial C-H activation in furfuryl alcohol, leading to enhanced selectivity towards H2 and hydrofuroin (a jet fuel precursor). Furthermore, we identified an optimum ZnxIn2S3+x activity level, striking the balance between improved carrier dynamics and reduced visible light absorption as the x value increases. Additionally, a higher Zn-S:In-S layer ratio extends the S-• lifetime in the Zn-S layer, promoting C-H activation and elevating the selectivity of the C-C coupling products. These findings contribute to the advancement of sulfide-based photocatalysts, pushing the boundaries of sustainable H2 production through organic photoreforming.

Read full article: https://doi.org/10.1016/j.apcatb.2023.122880 

And connect with our researcher and lead author: Denny Gunawan

Graphical Abstract App Cat B vol 333, 2023, 122880