Artificial Photosynthetic Systems Based on [FeFe]-Hydrogenase Mimics: the Road to High Efficiency for Light-Driven Hydrogen Evolution

Abstract

Hydrogen (H2) has the potential to replace fossil fuels as the clean energy carrier of the future, particularly if it is produced by water splitting using visible light. Natural [FeFe]-hydrogenase ([FeFe]-H2ase) is known to catalyze the reversible reduction of protons to H2 with remarkable activity under mild conditions. In this respect, artificial photosynthetic systems for H2 production by using sunlight and [FeFe]-H2ase mimics have attracted much attention, and great progress has been made in recent years. This perspective paper describes our efforts to achieve H2 evolution by [FeFe]-H2ase mimics powered by a photosensitizer (PS). Covalent-linked molecular dyads and a triad, a self-assembled micelle system and a robust, inexpensive, nanocrystal CdTe system will be highlighted.