Hydrogen production under visible light by photocatalytic reforming of glucose over an oxide solid solution photocatalyst

Hydrogen production under visible light by photocatalytic reforming of glucose over an oxide solid solution photocatalyst BixY1 − xVO4 (BYV) was demonstrated for the first time. It was found that a certain amount of Y doping would promote the transition of BiVO4 from monoclinic to tetragonal phase and finally lead to the formation of tetragonal BYV solid solution. BYV with a B/Y ratio of 1:1 showed the highest activity for hydrogen production. The amount of photoproduced hydrogen lowered after several hours of reaction. However, when the gas product was replaced with N2 atmosphere, hydrogen production recovered. It is supposed that the generated CO2 might participate in the redox reaction and in some way inhibit the hydrogen production. Therefore, for photocatalytic reforming of glucose, removal of gas product in time is indispensable.

Graphical AbstractPhotocatalytic reforming of glucose under visible light over an oxide solid solution BixY1 − xVO4(BYV) was demonstrated for the first time. It was found that certain a amount of Y doping would promote the transition of BiVO4 from monoclinic to tetragonal phase and finally lead to the formation of tetragonal BYV solid solution. BYV solid solution with a B/Y ratio of 1:1 showed the highest activity for hydrogen production.Figure optionsDownload full-size imageDownload as PowerPoint slideResearch Highlights►Y doping promotes the transition of BiVO4 from monoclinic to tetragonal phase. ► BYV solid solution with a B/Y ratio of 1:1 shows the highest activity. ► Removal of gas product in time is indispensable for photocatalytic reforming of glucose.