Methods and systems for the reduction of molecules using diamond as a photoreduction catalyst
US8986532B2 · kind B2 · utility
Assignee
Inventors
Key dates
| Filing date | Jan 31, 2012 |
| Grant date | Mar 24, 2015 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Nov 14, 2032 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC Y)Emerging Cross-Sectional Technologies
- CPC primaryY02P20/52
- WIPO fieldChemical engineering
- WIPO sectorChemistry
Abstract
Methods for the photoreduction of molecules are provided. The methods use diamond having a negative electron affinity as a photocatalyst, taking advantage of its ability to act as a solid-state electron emitter that is capable of inducing reductions without the need for reactants to adsorb onto its surface. The methods comprise illuminating a fluid sample comprising the molecules to be reduced and hydrogen surface-terminated diamond having a negative electron affinity with light comprising a wavelength that induces the emission of electrons from the diamond directly into the fluid sample. The emitted electrons induce the reduction of the molecules to form a reduction product.
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.