Energy Conversion in Natural and Artificial Photosynthesis (Springer Series in Chemical Physics, 117)

This book discusses the basic principles and processes of solar energy conversion in natural photosynthesis. It then directly compares them with recent developments and concepts currently being pursued in artificial photosynthetic systems that are capable of utilizing sunlight to convert carbon dioxide and water into a chemical fuel. In this regard, the main focus is on photoelectrochemical cells, in which semiconducting photoanodes and -cathodes modified with (electro-) catalysts are used to oxidize water, produce hydrogen and reduce carbon dioxide in a monolithic device. The fundamental photochemical and photophysical processes involved are presented and discussed, along with protection mechanisms and efficiency calculations for both natural and artificial photosynthesis. In turn, key parameters that are crucial for the efficient operation of natural photosynthesis are identified. Lastly, their validity and applicability in the design of artificial solar-driven water-splitting systems are examined. Front Matter ....Pages i-vii Introduction (Katharina Brinkert)....Pages 1-1 Oxygenic Photosynthesis—A Brief Overview (Katharina Brinkert)....Pages 3-8 Architecture, Structure and Function of the Energy Conversion Centers (Katharina Brinkert)....Pages 9-32 Electron Transfer (Katharina Brinkert)....Pages 33-54 Water Oxidation Catalysis and Hydrogen Evolution (Katharina Brinkert)....Pages 55-74 Carbon Fixation (Katharina Brinkert)....Pages 75-86 Protection Mechanisms (Katharina Brinkert)....Pages 87-96 Biomimetic Systems for Artificial Photosynthesis (Katharina Brinkert)....Pages 97-110 Efficiency of Photosynthesis and Photoelectrochemical Cells (Katharina Brinkert)....Pages 111-122 Conclusion: Towards the Realization of an Artificial Leaf (Katharina Brinkert)....Pages 123-124 Back Matter ....Pages 125-127