Oxygen Catalysis: The Other Half of the Equation

Kanan and Nocera have produced an oxygen-evolving catalyst from earth-abundant materials, using a very simple synthetic process. The catalyst also operates in water under ambient conditions. They made a catalyst film of cobalt and phosphate in a ratio of approximately 1:2. They form this on glass coated with a transparent conductive material, indium tin oxide by simply placing the glass in a solution of potassium phosphate and cobalt ions. A voltage bias was applied, current was passed, the catalyst deposits on the substrate and oxygen evolution begins. The activity of Kanan and Nocera's catalyst is fairly low, but the artificial photosynthesis application allows some flexibility. This catalyst aids in the efficient production of gaseous oxygen, improving the viability of photosynthesis.