Reviewed by Lexie CornerMay 20 2025
A world group of researchers from Hanyang College, led by Professor Yoonjung Jang, collaborated with Professor Stefan Ringe of Korea College and Professor Jiwoong Yang of the Daegu Gyeongbuk Institute of Science & Expertise. Collectively, they’ve produced environmentally pleasant photo voltaic hydrogen for the primary time utilizing a quantum semiconductor nanocluster—the smallest identified inorganic semiconductor materials.
In an aqueous surroundings, Professor Yang’s group efficiently synthesized a steady nanocluster of cadmium selenide ((CdSe)13), a sub-1-nm quantum semiconductor that had not beforehand been used as a photocatalyst. Utilizing this materials, they achieved photocatalytic hydrogen manufacturing and prompt its potential functions throughout quantum science, power, and environmental applied sciences.
Quantum semiconductor nanoclusters exist on the boundary between molecules and nanocrystals and include a exact variety of atoms. As a result of their excessive surface-to-volume ratio, they’re anticipated to exhibit excessive catalytic reactivity. Nonetheless, their structural instability and restricted electrical efficiency have hindered sensible use.
To handle this, the group engineered a superstructure wherein the nanoclusters self-organize right into a three-dimensional community. By cross-linking ligands on the cluster surfaces, they achieved structural stability whereas sustaining the distinctive properties of particular person clusters.
To reinforce electrical efficiency and allow efficient photocatalytic hydrogen evolution, the researchers additional doped the clusters with cobalt ions (Co2+).
This research is the primary of its form to exhibit {that a} quantum semiconductor nanocluster, referred to as the smallest inorganic semiconductor construction in existence, can be utilized as a photocatalyst. Sooner or later, it’s anticipated to broaden into numerous prospects in not simply power and surroundings, but additionally quantum science.
Jiwoong Yang, Professor, Daegu Gyeongbuk Institute of Science & Expertise
The analysis was supported by the Nationwide Analysis Basis of Korea and the Korea Institute for Development of Expertise.
Journal Reference:
Lee, S., et al. (2025) Photocatalytic Hydrogen Manufacturing Utilizing Semiconductor (CdSe)13 Clusters. Nano Letters. doi.org/10.1021/acs.nanolett.5c00529.
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