In situ transient reflection setup for operando photocarrier dynamics of nanocatalysts during photocatalytic reactions.

Abstract

We present the design and implementation of an operando transient reflection setup capable of monitoring ultrafast charge carrier dynamics in nanocatalysts during photocatalytic reactions. The setup integrates two distinct components: a photoreactor system and an optical pump-probe system. The photoreactor system allows precise control over gas concentration and temperature, enabling photocatalytic reactions under tailored conditions. Simultaneously, the optical system tracks the behavior of photoexcited carriers within the nanocatalysts throughout the reaction, providing real-time insights into their dynamic processes. We specifically explored the reverse water gas shift reaction using Cu2O nanospheres and nanocubes as nanocatalysts, analyzing their transient reflection behavior to probe changes in their chemistry and morphology during the reaction under isothermal and temperature-dependent conditions. The detailed design and findings highlight its potential application for advancing our understanding of photocarrier roles in photocatalytic processes in various nanomaterial systems.