Photochemistry and Biochemistry

Research is supported on the molecular mechanisms involved in the capture of light energy and its conversion into chemical and electrical energy through biological and chemical pathways. Fundamental research on natural photosynthesis provides insights for advancing bio-hybrid and artificial photosynthetic systems and for increasing photosynthetic efficiency in natural systems. Complementary fundamental research encompasses organic and inorganic photochemistry, photo- and bio-electrochemistry, electron and energy transfer, photo- and bio-catalysis, and molecular assemblies for artificial photosynthesis.

For more information about these research areas, please contact the Team Lead, Dr. B. Gail McLean.

Highlights

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Structure of Iridium (Ir) dimer complex showing an Ir-Ir bonding molecular orbital populated (left) and an Ir-Ir anti-bonding molecular orbital depopulated (right) by optical excitation.

Advanced Techniques Paint a More Accurate Picture of Molecular Geometry in Metal Complexes

Ultrafast X-ray scattering and advanced numerical simulations decode distinct molecular structures and their equilibration dynamics in metal-metal complexes.

Conversion of CO2 to butene via a solar-driven tandem process. First, CO2 is converted to ethylene using an electrochemical reactor and solar-derived electricity. Next, ethylene is converted to butene via thermal catalysis with heat from solar irradiation.

Driving Chemical Transformations Through the Power of Solar Energy

Researchers combine solar energy, electrochemistry, and thermal catalysis to remove the need for fossil fuel-driven chemical conversions.