Hybrid H2-evolution catalysts: in situ formation of H2-evolution catalysts from metal salts inside the mesopores of silica–alumina supporting an organic photosensitiser

Abstract

Photocatalytic hydrogen (H₂) evolution was achieved by photoirradiation of mesoporous silica–alumina supporting an organic photosensitiser in the presence of metal salts, which were converted into an H₂-evolution catalyst in situ. Not only precious Pt but also earth-abundant Cu acted as an H₂-evolution catalyst for the first time in the photocatalytic H₂ evolution system using an organic photosensitiser.