MOKAP

In the LCPB at the Collège de France, part of our research efforts focuses on mimicking photosynthesis by developing novel heterogeneous catalysts for the photocatalytic overall conversion of CO2, while understanding the fundamental concepts prevailing in efficient and selective conversions of CO2 into valuable products.

Over the last couple of years, such research in LCPB is involving more researchers, targeting novel functionalized MOF-based composites of increasing complexity for CO2 conversion into CO, CH4 and formate. Recent positive developments in our laboratory create an ever-growing demand of rapid and reliable “on line” photocatalytic measurements, to allow rapid screening of photocatalytic conditions for our hybrid photosystems, and the continuous quantification of products (O2, H2, CO, CH4) for obtaining reliable kinetics over long-time illumination.

Monitoring the kinetics of the experiments will give us further valuable insights on our systems, especially long-term stability. The current project aims to acquire a microGC in LCPB to carry out automated operando measurements during photocatalytic reactions. This set-up will not only facilitate intensive screening of catalysts but also allow for detailed correlations between catalytic performances, reaction conditions and catalyst design.