Photocatalytic conversion of glucose to H2 over LaFeO3 perovskite nanoparticles

The aim of this work was to evaluate the influence of operating conditions in the photocatalytic hydrogen production from glucose solution on LaFeO3 nanoparticles under UV and visible through light-emitting diodes (LEDs). In particular, LaFeO3 prepared by solution combustion synthesis with a specific amount of citric acid used as fuel, has been tested. The process efficiency was evaluated in terms of both glucose degradation and hydrogen production during the irradiation time. The influence of initial glucose concentration, catalyst dosage, and light source has been evaluated. Experimental results showed that the initial concentration of glucose affected the photocatalytic hydrogen production, and in particular the hydrogen production increased linearly (up to 370 μmol) as glucose concentration was increased up to 1000 mg L-1. Moreover, 1.5 g L-1 was found to be the optimum value for the catalysts dosage for obtaining the best photocatalytic hydrogen production after 4 h of irradiation. Furthermore, LaFeO3 nanoparticles were active in the production of hydrogen also under visible light.