Abstract
Making efficient use of solar energy is one of the biggest challenges of our time. In nature, solar energy can be harvested by photosynthesis where proton-coupled electron transfer (PCET) plays a critical role. Here, PCET is utilized for the first time to directly convert light energy to electrical energy. Quinone/hydroquinone PCET redox couples were used to produce a photovoltage along with spiropyrans, photoswitchable compounds that undergo reversible transformation between a ring-closed (Sp) and ring-opened form (Mc). The Mc form is more basic than the Sp form, and the open-circuit voltage (V(oc)) is related to the proton concentration and that of the Sp/Mc ratio controlled by light. V(oc) values from 100 to 140 mV were produced. In addition to direct current (J(sc) ca. 9 μA cm(-2)), alternating current in the range of 0.1 to 200 Hz was also produced by manipulating the input light.
Talk to us
Join us for a 30 min session where you can share your feedback and ask us any queries you have
Schedule a callDisclaimer: All third-party content on this website/platform is and will remain the property of their respective owners and is provided on "as is" basis without any warranties, express or implied. Use of third-party content does not indicate any affiliation, sponsorship with or endorsement by them. Any references to third-party content is to identify the corresponding services and shall be considered fair use under The CopyrightLaw.
