World demand for energy is rapidly increasing and finding sufficient
supplies of clean energy for the future is one of the major scientific
challenges of today. This book presents the latest knowledge and
chemical prospects in developing hydrogen as a solar fuel. Using
oxygenic photosynthesis and hydrogenase enzymes for bio-inspiration, it
explores strategies for developing photocatalysts to produce a molecular
solar fuel. The book begins with perspective of solar energy utilization
and the role that synthetic photocatalysts can play in producing solar
fuels. It then summarizes current knowledge with respect to light
capture, photochemical conversion, and energy storage in chemical bonds.
Following chapters on the natural systems, the book then summarizes the
latest developments in synthetic chemistry of photo- and reductive
catalysts. Finally, important future research goals for the practical
utilization of solar energy are discussed. The book is written by
experts from various fields working on the biological and synthetic
chemical side of molecular solar fuels to facilitate advancement in this
area of research.