Study of interaction of CoPcF16 within poly 4-vinylpyridine matrix using UV/Vis spectroscopy

Abstract

Metallophthalocyanine (MPc) complexes based on abundant transition metals has greatly interest as catalyst due to their attractive features including a rich redox behaviour, the potential to bind with metals or non-metals in the central cavity. Among the transiton metal, cobalt complexes as electrocatalyst are preferable due to their efficient catalytic activity. Immobilisation of the catalyst onto surface may improve with the poly 4-vinylpyridine (P4VP) as polymer backbone. However, aggreagation of MPc is the challenge to overcome. This study aims to investigate the interaction behaviour of cobalt(II) hexadecfluorophthalocyanine (CoPcF16) within poly 4-inylpyridine (P4VP) using UV/Vis spectroscopy. Two solutions of CoPcF16 and P4VP were mixed and the interaction of CoPcF16-P4VP was observed through the time using UV/Vis spectroscopy at wavelength 500 to 750 nm. The outcome suggests that coordination of the electrocatalysts is favoured by the comportment of a high concentration of 4VP. Subsequently, this CoPcF16-P4VP electrocatalyst has a potential for water splitting or hydrogen evolution.