Wisconsin Alumni Research Foundation

Materials & Chemicals
Materials Chemicals
Improved Photocatalyst for Reducing Small Molecules
WARF: P120070US01

Inventors: Robert Hamers, Di Zhu, Nigel Becknell

The Wisconsin Alumni Research Foundation (WARF) is seeking commercial partners interested in developing a method that uses photo-illuminated diamond as the photocatalyst in the reduction of nitrogen and other small molecules.
Overview
The reduction of small molecules such as nitrogen and carbon dioxide is extremely difficult because one-electron reduction processes often involve high-energy intermediates. Nitrogen reduction usually is coupled with the transfer of one or more protons to generate a more stable intermediate, but the energy level associated with this reaction remains relatively high. Several modifications to the original doped titanium dioxide powder catalyst have been developed for use in the photocatalytic reduction of nitrogen; however, the overall efficiency of this reaction remains poor. A new method for the reduction of small molecules is needed.
The Invention
UW–Madison researchers have developed a reaction system and method for the photoreduction of molecules that uses diamonds with a negative electron affinity as the photocatalyst. The method involves illuminating a fluid sample containing the molecules to be reduced and a hydrogen surface-terminated diamond having a negative electron affinity. The illuminating light wavelength induces the emission of electrons from the diamond directly into the fluid sample. These emitted electrons induce the reduction of the molecules, forming a reduction product. The product then can be separated from the fluid sample and collected. This method can be used to reduce a variety of molecules, including small molecules such as N2, CO2, CO or NOx and aromatic molecules that include one or more benzene rings.
Applications
  • Photocatalyst for the reduction of small molecules
  • Ammonia production
Key Benefits
  • Hydrogen-coated diamond possesses higher photocatalytic activity and retains this activity for a longer period of time than existing catalysts.
  • Diamond powder may be less expensive than Ru-impregnated TiO2.
  • The energy level associated with this reaction is significantly lower than existing catalysts
Stage of Development
Reduction of nitrogen using diamond grit, electrochemical-grade diamond and high-quality diamond all yielded comparable photocatalytic activity.
Additional Information
For More Information About the Inventors
Related Intellectual Property
Publications
  • Zhu D., Zhang L., Ruther R.E. and Hamers R.J. 2013. Photo-Illuminated Diamond as a Solid-State Source of Solvated Electrons in Water for Nitrogen Reduction. Nat. Mater. 12, 836-841.
  • View a news story about this technology
For current licensing status, please contact Jennifer Gottwald at [javascript protected email address] or 608-960-9854

WARF