Pt-decorated ZnMn2O4 nanorods for effective photocatalytic reduction of CO2 into methanol under visible light

The emergence of CO2 photoconversion into liquid fuels becomes a sustainable and ecological way to overcome future energy problems. Accordingly, a simple preparation of visible-light ZnMn2O4 (ZMO) nanorod harvesters is presented. These ZMO nanorods are decorated with small amount of Pt nanoparticles (0.5-2.0 wt%) to enhance the selective photoreduction of CO2 into methanol (MeOH). Depiction of the produced samples revealed a notable advance of structure and surface properties by introducing Pt. Moreover, the visible light absorption and photocharge separation were enhanced through the deposition of Pt with a reduction of the bandgap down to 1.98 eV for the 1.5% Pt/ZMO. This optimal Pt/ZMO showed a 1906 mu mol/g selective photoreduction of CO2 to MeOH within 9 h at 2.4 g L-1. The prepared photocatalyst showed sustainable recyclability after five times reuse. The enhanced photocatalytic performance of Pt/ZMO is referring to the suppression of the charge recombination and improvement of the mobility as well. This work signifies the use of less noble metal supporting spinelstructured photocatalysts for renewable generation of fuels.

Automated summary

The emergence of CO2 photoconversion into liquid fuels using ZnMn2O4 (ZMO) nanorods decorated with Pt nanoparticles shows enhanced photocatalytic performance. The Pt/ZMO photocatalyst exhibits improved visible light absorption and photocharge separation, leading to selective photoreduction of CO2 to methanol. The sustainable recyclability of Pt/ZMO after five times reuse highlights its potential for renewable generation of fuels.