Charge Transport in Molecular Catalysis in a Heterogeneous Phase

Abstract

This chapter focuses on the fundamental aspects in controlling charge transport (CT) processes through molecules in energy conversion systems. The central reactions involved in the energy conversion are the charge separation and charge transfer processes along the reaction coordinates from reactant molecules, assisted by the catalyst active sites. In some cases the polymer medium plays an important role in the charge transport processes that are the models of molecular aggregates in biomimetic systems. The mechanism of charge transport in heterogeneous phase is discussed in detail since this makes often the rate-limiting process in the whole system, and its design is especially important to establish a high energy conversion efficiency. Charge transfer reactions at the electrode surface is outlined where the metal complex is involved as a catalyst of the redox reaction. The metal complex furnished with the functional groups and the metal active center is tailored through the optimum design of the charge transfer complexes. Finally the proton transport in a heterogeneous phase that mediates the redox and chemical reactions is introduced and its mechanism is briefly discussed.