Boosting photocatalytic H2O2 production by incorporating extra electron-donor group over resorcinol-formaldehyde resin

Abstract

The photocatalytic production of hydrogen peroxide from water and oxygen using solar energy presents a promising approach. Nevertheless, challenges persist regarding the efficiency of this process and the clarification of the underlying catalytic mechanisms. In this study, we synthesized a donor-acceptor type photocatalyst, modified resorcinol-formaldehyde resin. FT-IR and XPS analyses confirmed the successful incorporation of an additional electron donor unit, N, N-dimethylaniline, which interacts with the electron acceptor unit to facilitate the directed migration of photogenerated electrons. Furthermore, this modification creates an electron-rich carbonyl active center, enhancing its capacity to adsorb and reduce O₂, thereby improving the photocatalytic production of H₂O₂. In situ EPR and DRIFT analyses identified key intermediates, substantiating a two-step, single-electron oxygen reduction pathway and providing insights into the catalytic mechanism. Importantly, without the use of sacrificial agents or additional aeration, the photocatalytic production rate of H₂O₂ reached 22.8 μmol·h⁻¹, underscoring its potential as an effective photocatalyst. This study elucidates the reaction mechanism during the photocatalytic process, offering valuable insights for future material design aimed at enhancing hydrogen peroxide production rates.