Apparatus for H2 photosynthesis

Donald G. Lewis; Michael R. Otto

doi:10.1117/12.826323

20 August 2009 Apparatus for H₂ photosynthesis

Donald G. Lewis, Michael R. Otto

Proceedings Volume 7408, Solar Hydrogen and Nanotechnology IV; 74080W (2009) https://doi.org/10.1117/12.826323
Event: SPIE Solar Energy + Technology, 2009, San Diego, California, United States

Abstract

An apparatus is described for housing artificial photosynthesis processes. The apparatus is solar powered and employs two separate compartments for the respective oxidation and reduction reactions. A proton exchange membrane (PEM) partitions the two compartments and enables proton conduction therebetween. Faradic losses due to proton currents are minimized by use of a novel geometry. A zigzag design for the solar cell/electrode/PEM partition between the two compartments introduces large fringe fields which help drive proton current from one compartment to the other and reduce faradic losses by shortening the average proton conduction path. Facilitating proton current also improves the pH gradient and enhances water splitting reaction rates. The zigzag design also improves capture of solar flux by shading the PEM under the solar cells.

Citation Download Citation

Donald G. Lewis and Michael R. Otto "Apparatus for H₂ photosynthesis", Proc. SPIE 7408, Solar Hydrogen and Nanotechnology IV, 74080W (20 August 2009); https://doi.org/10.1117/12.826323

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