Photocatalytic reforming of glucose over La doped alkali tantalate photocatalysts for H2 production

La doped alkali tantalate photocatalysts (MTaO3, M = Li, Na, K) were synthesized by solid-state reaction. Photocatalytic reforming of glucose solution (as a model of biomass) over MTaO3 for H2 production were investigated and compared. NaTaO3 exhibited the highest activity for H2 production, while LiTaO3 showed the lowest activity. Adding glucose to water could apparently enhance the H2 evolution rate and suppress the generation of O2 over NaTaO3, whereas glucose was gradually oxidized to CO2. The optimum loading amount of NiO was found to be 0.2 wt.% for NaTaO3, and it was more effective for H2 production from glucose solution than Pt co-catalyst.

Graphical AbstractFigure optionsDownload as PowerPoint slideResearch Highlights
► The photocatalytic activity of La doped alkali tantalates (MTaO3, M = Li, Na, K) were investigated and compared for H2 production from glucose solution via photocatalytic reforming process.
► The H2 evolution rate of NiO (0.2 wt%)/NaTaO3 can be greatly improved (51%) by adding glucose to water.
► The formation of O2 in water cleavage reaction over NaTaO3 sample was suppressed by the presence of glucose, which was gradually oxidized to CO2.