Date Thesis Awarded
5-2017
Access Type
Honors Thesis -- Access Restricted On-Campus Only
Degree Name
Bachelors of Science (BS)
Department
Chemistry
Advisor
William R. McNamara
Committee Members
Kristin L. Wustholz
John C. Poutsma
Timothy A. Davis
Abstract
A family of highly active iron polypyridyl complexes are reported due to their highly active and stable photocatalytic activity. The photocatalytic system produces hydrogen for 24 hours, with a turnover number (TON) of >2000. The photochemical quenching mechanism is explored, as well as the limiting factors of the photocatalytic system.
In addition, a family of cobalt Schiff base complexes are reported due to their facile synthesis, cost-effectiveness, and electrocatalytic activity and efficiency. Foot-of-the-wave analysis (FOWA) is used to more ideally describe the kinetics of the electrocatalysts. Tafel plots are used to describe the relationship between activity and efficiency in both the catalysts. One electrocatalyst has a maximum theoretical turnover frequency (TOF) of 80,000 s-1.
Recommended Citation
DiRisio, Ryan J., "Advancements in the Photocatalysis of Iron Complexes and the Electrocatalysis of Cobalt Complexes for Hydrogen Generation" (2017). Undergraduate Honors Theses. William & Mary. Paper 1059.
https://scholarworks.wm.edu/honorstheses/1059
