Cluster Size Effects in the Photocatalytic Hydrogen Evolution Reaction

Abstract

The photocatalytic water reduction reaction on CdS nanorods was studied as function of Pt cluster size. Maximum H₂ production is found for Pt₄₆. This effect is attributed to the size dependent electronic properties (e.g., LUMO) of the clusters with respect to the band edges of the semiconductor. This observation may be applicable for the study and interpretation of other systems and reactions, e.g. H₂O oxidation or CO₂ reduction