Artificial Photosynthesis and Solar Fuel

In artificial photosynthesis we study processes based on the principles of natural photosynthesis. A long-term goal is to construct a synthetic, photochemical system that converts solar energy into a storable fuel. We collaborate extensively within the Swedish Consortium for Artificial Photosynthesis (CAP) as well as with international partners.

We design and study molecular systems for controlling photoinduced electron transfer and proton-coupled electron transfer, as well as for coupling photoinduced charge separation to multi-electron reactions in so-called accumulative charge separation.

We also study synthetic catalysts for H2 production and water splitting to understand the catalytic mechanism. By a combination of spectroscopic, photochemical and electrochemical methods we capture intermediates of the catalytic cycle and study critical reaction steps.

We attach catalysts to dye-sensitized semiconductors, to drive complete water splitting in a device, and investigate the interfacial and surface charge transfer processes.