Sensitization of bismuth tungstate with magnesium phthalocyanine for photoinduced charge redistribution and electron localization: CO2 photoreduction from the vis to NIR region. Issue 2 (21st December 2022)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Teh, Yee Wen; Chong, Wei-Kean; Er, Chen-Chen; Kong, Xin Ying; Ng, Boon-Junn; Yong, Siek-Ting; Chai, Siang-Piao
• Is Part Of: Journal of materials chemistry. Volume 11:Issue 2(2022)
• Page Start: 705
• Page End: 711
• Publication Date: 2022-12-21
• Subjects: Materials -- Periodicals; Chemistry, Analytic -- Periodicals; Optical materials -- Research -- Periodicals; Electronics -- Materials -- Research -- Periodicals; 543.0284
• DOI: 10.1039/d2tc03859e
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 2050-7526

Abstract

Abstract : MgPc photosensitizers facilitate electron excitation in the NIR region to further enhance the photocatalytic activity of Bi2 WO6 . Abstract : Spectral sensitization of 2D ultrathin bismuth tungstate (Bi2 WO6 ) nanosheets with magnesium phthalocyanine (MgPc) molecules was performed to extend the light absorption ability to the NIR region. The optimal loading of MgPc on Bi2 WO6 demonstrated a 2.2-fold improvement in CH4 yield as compared to that of bare Bi2 WO6 from CO2 photoreduction under visible light illumination ( λ > 410 nm). The developed sample exhibited remarkable stability, maintaining 96.3% of reactivity after three consecutive cycles. This improved photocatalytic performance can be attributed to better solar light utilization and enhanced charge separation. Photoactivity was also observed even under low-photonic NIR light. DFT calculations were performed to provide qualitative insights into the charge transfer process, divulging that the incorporation of MgPc promotes electron localization at the O atom and therefore enhances CO2 reduction activity. The experimental results and theoretical calculations disclosed the crucial role of MgPc in facilitating electron excitation in the NIR region to further drive the photocatalytic activity of Bi2 WO6 . In brief, this work provides useful insights into designing an efficient 2D photocatalyst for solar energy-driven fuel production from CO2 .