Silicon Nanowires as Photoelectrodes for Carbon Dioxide Fixation

Lights on: When illuminated, p-type Si nanowires donate photogenerated electrons to aromatic ketones, producing reactive radicals that can harvest CO2 to yield α-hydroxy acids (see scheme). The reaction scheme closely resembles that of natural photosynthesis and gives up to 98 % yield and selectivity. Products obtained by this reaction include important precursors for nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, such as ibuprofen and naproxen.