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Published on: May 21, 2019
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Generating hydrated electrons through photoredox catalysis with 9-anthrolate
Christoph Kerzig1, Martin Goez
1Martin-Luther-Universität Halle-Wittenberg, Institut für Chemie, Kurt-Mothes-Str. 2, D-06120 Halle (Saale), Germany. martin.goez@chemie.uni-halle.de.
Physical Chemistry Chemical Physics : PCCP
|May 2, 2015
Summary
This study demonstrates a sustainable method for generating hydrated electrons using 9-anthrolate and ascorbate under near-UV light. The catalyst is regenerated, enabling efficient in situ production of these powerful reductants.
Area of Science:
- Photochemistry
- Physical Chemistry
- Chemical Kinetics
Background:
- Hydrated electrons are potent reductants with significant applications.
- Efficient and sustainable methods for their in situ generation are highly sought after.
Purpose of the Study:
- To develop a catalytic cycle for the in situ production of hydrated electrons.
- To utilize near-UV light (355 nm) for this process.
- To investigate the role of ascorbate as a sacrificial donor and catalyst regenerator.
Main Methods:
- Photoionization of 9-anthrolate in water using near-UV light.
- Employing ascorbate dianion as a sacrificial donor.
- Monitoring electron yields and catalyst regeneration through control experiments.
Main Results:
- A biphotonic photoionization pathway via the first excited singlet state of 9-anthrolate was identified.
- The anthroxy radical by-product is efficiently reduced by ascorbate dianion, regenerating the catalyst.
- Electron yields significantly exceeded catalyst concentration, confirming sustainable generation.
Conclusions:
- A catalytic cycle for sustainable in situ generation of hydrated electrons has been established.
- The process relies on efficient catalyst regeneration by the ascorbate dianion.
- This method offers a controlled and efficient route to produce powerful reductants.
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