Deuteration mechanistic studies of hydrogenase mimics

The role of deuterium in disentangling key steps of the mechanisms of H₂ activation by mimics of hydrogenases is presented. These studies have allowed to a better understanding of the mode of action of the natural enzymes and their mimics.

Identifying a Real Catalyst of [NiFe]-Hydrogenase Mimic for Exceptional H2 Photogeneration

Inspired by the natural [NiFe]-H₂ ase, we designed mimic 1, (dppe)Ni(μ-pdt)(μ-Cl)Ru(CO)₂ Cl to realize effective H₂ evolution under photocatalytic conditions. However, a new species 2 was captured in the course of photo-, electro-, and chemo- one-electron reduction. Experimental studies of in situ IR spectroscopy, EPR, NMR, X-ray absorption spectroscopy, and DFT calculations corroborated a dimeric structure of 2 as a closed-shell, symmetric structure with a Ru^I center. The isolated dimer 2 showed the real catalytic role in photocatalysis with a benchmark turnover frequency (TOF) of 1936 h^-1 for H₂ evolution, while mimic 1 worked as a pre-catalyst and evolved H₂ only after being reduced to 2. The remarkably catalytic activity and unique dimer structure of 2 operated in photocatalysis unveiled a broad research prospect in hydrogenases mimics for advanced H₂ evolution.