Supramolecular photocatalyst for solar-driven hydrogen
This technology uses specially engineered molecules called supramolecular complexes to split water into hydrogen gas using visible light. Each complex acts like a miniature solar-to-fuel converter: one metal center absorbs sunlight and transfers electrons through a bridging structure to a second metal center, which uses those electrons to break apart water molecules and release hydrogen. The system is designed to remain chemically stable throughout the process, meaning it can theoretically operate in cycles without degrading. It is essentially artificial photosynthesis focused specifically on hydrogen fuel production.
What you could build
A photocatalytic reactor system for solar hydrogen generation, targeted at clean energy researchers, hydrogen fuel producers, or industrial chemical companies seeking carbon-free hydrogen pathways.
Who in Virginia should care
Virginia-based energy companies, DOE national lab partners, or university spin-outs working on hydrogen economy infrastructure would be the most plausible local stakeholders.
Readiness: Lab validated
Concept — described but not yet demonstrated. Lab validated — supported by experimental results in the patent. Prototype likely — the text describes a built, working embodiment.
Readiness is inferred from the patent text, not from a lab visit.
The record
- Inventors
- Karen J. Brewer, Mark Elvington
- Granted
- September 1, 2009
- Status
- Granted patent
- Patent number
- 7582584
Ready to talk?
Virginia Tech Intellectual Properties handles licensing for this technology.
Prosim summaries are generated from public patent text and are not legal advice.