GDCh-Kolloquium Prof. Dr. Carole Duboc

Bio-inspired catalysts for clean H₂ production

Hydrogen production through water splitting emerges as a pertinent solution in the long run for renewable energy storage. Hydrogenases, which are organometallic enzymes containing iron and/or nickel metal centers, exhibit catalytic performances that rival platinum for hydrogen evolution. Their fascinating properties make them the ideal inspiration for designing molecular catalysts for technological devices. During this presentation, the bio-inspired strategy will be illustrated: How can this approach be at the origin of efficient systems that achieve H₂ production in a catalytic manner? How can it provide helpful information regarding the catalytic mechanism of the enzymes?