Combining photocatalysis and optical fibre technology towards improved microreactor design for hydrogen generation with metallic nanoparticles

Abstract

The use of solar energy to activate chemical pathways in a sustainable manner drivesthe development in photocatalysis. While catalyst optimisation is a major theme in this pursuit, the development of novel photocatalytic reactors to enhance productivity is also imperative. In this work we combine, for the first time, microstructured optical fibre technology with photocatalysis, creating a photocatalytic microreactor coated with TiO2, decorated with palladium nanoparticles. In doing so, we create a system capable of effectively combining photons, liquids and gases within a monolithic, highly confined, transparent silica geometry. We utilise a range of characterisation techniques to selectively focus on the photocatalyst, that resides exclusively within the internal capillaries of this system. In doing so we validate our design approach, and demonstrate the ability to simultaneously control both nanoparticle size and metal content. Further, we justify our unique design, showing its activity in photocatalytic hydrogen generation from water. In doing so highlighting the importance in developing light propagation properties from optical fibres, and the significant potential of this technology in the expansive photocatalysis landscape.

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Identifiers

ORCID for Daniel J. Stewart: orcid.org/0000-0003-3409-6517

ORCID for Tom Bradley: orcid.org/0000-0001-6568-5811

ORCID for Pier J.A. Sazio: orcid.org/0000-0002-6506-9266

ORCID for Robert Raja: orcid.org/0000-0002-4161-7053

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