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.