Voltammetric and spectroscopic characterization of early intermediates in the Co(II)-polypyridyl-catalyzed reduction of water

Early intermediates of catalytic water reduction by a Co(II)-polypyridyl species have been characterized. Electrochemical detection of the Co(III)-hydride and time-resolved spectroscopic detection of the Co(I)-ligand intermediates provide an understanding of their reactivity in electrolytic or light-driven reduction of protons to hydrogen.