Abstract
The NANOARC project aims to develop novel photoelectrocatalytic nano-architectures with controlled composition and morphology for processing key redox couples (H₂O/O₂ and CO₂/HCOOH), addressing the challenge of Artificial Photosynthesis for renewable energy production. It seeks to surpass natural photosynthesis by redesigning the 4-electron/4-proton water oxidation mechanism and selective CO₂ reduction to solar fuels. The project employs a modular assembly of organic-inorganic components, integrating perylene-bisimides (PBI) and polyoxometalates (POM) for water oxidation. For CO₂ reduction, multifunctional electrocatalysts on carbon nanostructures with mixed oxides will be synthesized. Electrodes will be optimized using Gas Diffusion Layers and layer-by-layer assembly. Advanced photoelectrocatalysis studies will establish structure-reactivity relationships, leading to a bio-inspired PEC prototype for formic acid production from CO₂.
Scientific coordinator for the Department
Prof. Giovanni Valenti (local coordinator)
Partnership
Alma Mater Studiorum - Università di Bologna (Italy), prof. Giovanni Valenti
Università degli Studi di Trieste (Italy), prof. Maurizio Prato [Leader]
Università degli Studi di Padova (Italy), prof. Marcella Boncio
Università del Salento (Italy), prof. Simona Bettini