Colocalization of light harvesting and catalytic units in a 'soft' coordination polymer hydrogel toward visible-light driven photocatalytic hydrogen production

Colocalization of essential molecular components in a solvated soft supramolecular assembly towards realizing visible-light-driven hydrogen evolution would be an exciting approach for sustainable energy by generating clean solar fuel. In this study, we report the preparation and characterization of a coordination polymer gel (Zn-TPY-ANT CPG) formed by the self-assembly of Zn2+ and an anthracene-terpyridine based low molecular weight gelator (TPY-ANT LMWG). The 1D nanofibrous CPG in the hydrogel state shows the potential to perform visible-light-driven (400-750 nm) photocatalytic water reduction and produce a considerable amount of hydrogen (12.02 mmol g(-1) in 22 h). Furthermore, H-2 evolution can be enhanced significantly (18.03 mmol g(-1) in 22 h) upon illumination with the full-range of light (290-750 nm). In this supramolecular assembly, the ANT unit acts as a light-harvesting moiety whereas the [Zn(TPY)(2)](2+) center acts as a catalytic site. We believe that such a design of soft hybrid materials would have a positive impact on developing a non-precious, stable, and recyclable photocatalyst material for H-2 production.

Automated summary

This study presents the preparation and characterization of a coordination polymer gel formed by the self-assembly of Zn2+ and an anthracene-terpyridine based low molecular weight gelator, which shows potential for visible-light-driven photocatalytic water reduction in the hydrogel state. The assembly utilizes the ANT unit for light-harvesting and the [Zn(TPY)2]2+ center as a catalytic site, demonstrating the potential for developing a non-precious, stable, and recyclable photocatalyst material for hydrogen production.