In situ formation of an active oxygen evolution catalyst via photodegradation of [Ru(bpy)3]2+†
Abstract
[Ru(bpy)3]2+ is a widely used molecular photosensitizer (PS) for light-driven reactions in combination with separate catalysts, although the PS alone is known to promote water oxidation under aqueous conditions as well. In contrast, this behavior has not been reported for organic and aqueous solvent mixtures before. Here, we provide mechanistic insights into the role of [Ru(bpy)3]2+ as PS and oxygen evolution catalyst precursor in organic media.