Issue 30, 2024

N vacancies modulated Zn single atoms for efficient H2O2 photosynthesis

Abstract

Solar-powered photosynthesis though two-electron oxygen reduction presents an eco-friendly and energy-efficient approach for producing high-value H2O2. However, achieving highly efficient photosynthesis for H2O2 generation is challenging due to limited photogenerated charge transfer efficiency and the sluggish kinetic process. Herein, we use a defect engineering approach that involves creating N vacancies around Zn–N4 to modify the electron density of Zn single atoms for efficient H2O2 production. The presence of adjacent N vacancies increases the electron density of Zn–N4 sites and makes the *H2O2 desorption step that generates H2O2 (*H2O2 → H2O2) thermodynamically more favorable. The separation and migration of photogenerated electron–hole pairs is also greatly promoted. Under simulated sunlight, the H2O2 yield for Zn–N4 sites with adjacent N vacancies reaches 1363.4 μmol g−1 h−1, 3.2 times higher than that of CN, and the apparent quantum yield is 24.6% (λ = 350 nm).

Graphical abstract: N vacancies modulated Zn single atoms for efficient H2O2 photosynthesis

Supplementary files

Article information

Article type
Paper
Submitted
16 May 2024
Accepted
04 Jul 2024
First published
04 Jul 2024

J. Mater. Chem. A, 2024,12, 19497-19503

N vacancies modulated Zn single atoms for efficient H2O2 photosynthesis

W. Xie, J. Liu and X. Liu, J. Mater. Chem. A, 2024, 12, 19497 DOI: 10.1039/D4TA03397C

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