Generation of Hydrogen by Visible Light-Induced Water Splitting with the Use of Semiconductors and Dyes

Abstract

Photosynthesis that occurs in plants involves both the oxidation of water and the reduction of carbon dioxide. Plants carry out these reactions with ease, by involving electron-transport chains. In this article, hydrogen generation by the reduction of water in the laboratory by using semiconductor nanostructures through artificial photosynthesis is examined. Dye-sensitized photochemical generation of hydrogen from water is also discussed. Hydrogen generation by these means has great technological relevance, since it is an environmentally friendly fuel. The way in which oxygen can be generated by the oxidation of water using metal oxide catalysts is also shown.

Keywords: artificial photosynthesis; hydrogen production; photocatalysis; semiconductors; water splitting.