Electrocatalytic H2 evolution of a Schiff-base assisted Cu(II) derivative as catalyst on homogeneous and heterogeneous phase

A trimetallic Cu-II derivative, [Cu-3(L)(2)(NO3)(2)] (1) is first afforded, incorporating a tetradentate Schiff base precursor, H2L [where H2L = N,N'-bis(salicylidene)-1,3-propanediamine]. This compound is employed as an electrocatalyst for hydrogen evolution by reduction of proton or H2O under homogenous and heterogeneous systems. Electrocatalytic H-2 evolution study, involving CV, DPV, CPE and GC, shows that compound 1 is highly active toward proton reduction in homogenous system using acetic acid as proton source in organic solvent. Moreover, the catalyst-modified electrode shows quite interesting H-2 evolution activity in neutral aqueous solution when it is compared to a polished bare electrode, implying its potentiality in future solar energy storage via photo electrochemical water splitting.