What question did this study set out to answer?

The aim is to understand the redox dynamics of Ni and Cu co-catalysts in a TiO2 photocatalyst during hydrogen evolution.

June 3, 2026Open Access

In situ X-ray absorption spectroscopy to study redox dynamics in Ni and Cu co-catalysts on porous TiO2 photocatalyst films during H2 evolution

Key Points

The aim is to understand the redox dynamics of Ni and Cu co-catalysts in a TiO2 photocatalyst during hydrogen evolution.
Used in situ X-ray Absorption Spectroscopy to monitor oxidation states of Ni and Cu.
Analyzed spectroscopic results concerning hydrogen transients under alternating UV light conditions.
H2 evolution activity was highest for NiCu, followed by Ni and Cu on TiO2.
Cu effectively functions as an electron sink, enhancing hydrogen evolution.
Ni operates as a dynamic hole buffer through reversible oxidation.

Abstract

• Photocatalytic H 2 evolution activity trend follows the order NiCu > Ni > Cu – TiO 2 • In situ X-ray Absorption Spectroscopy tracks Ni and Cu oxidation state during photocatalysis • Spectroscopic results analyzed in relation to H 2 transients under UV light off/on/off cycles • Cu serves as an efficient electron sink for hydrogen evolution • Ni acts as a dynamic hole buffer through reversible oxidation

In situ X-ray absorption spectroscopy to study redox dynamics in Ni and Cu co-catalysts on porous TiO2 photocatalyst films during H2 evolution

Key Points

Abstract

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