Daily Current Affairs : 6-January-2024

Researchers at IISER Bhopal have recently introduced a groundbreaking photocatalyst named UC-POP-Au, exhibiting the remarkable ability to absorb the entire spectrum of light. This development holds significant implications for advancements in chemical processes, positioning UC-POP-Au as a potent catalyst.

Photocatalysts: A Blend of Light and Catalysis

The term “photocatalyst” merges “photo,” associated with photons, and “catalyst,” a substance influencing reaction rates. These materials have the unique property of altering chemical reaction rates when exposed to light—a phenomenon termed photocatalysis. The illumination triggers the generation of free charges, namely electrons and holes, in the catalyst, actively participating in subsequent chemical reactions. It’s important to note that all photocatalysts are fundamentally semiconductors.

Material Effectiveness: Titanium Dioxide as a Benchmark

Various materials exhibit photocatalytic capabilities, with titanium dioxide (TiO2) standing out as highly effective. This recognition underscores the diverse range of materials that can serve as effective photocatalysts.

Categories of Photocatalysis: Homogeneous and Heterogeneous Approaches

Photocatalysis can occur through two distinct approaches:

  1. Homogeneous Photocatalysis: This happens when the semiconductor and reactant share the same phase, be it gas, solid, or liquid.
  2. Heterogeneous Photocatalysis: This approach involves different phases for the semiconductor and reactant, expanding the applicability of photocatalysis in various contexts.
Applications of Photocatalysis: Transformative Solutions for Diverse Challenges

UC-POP-Au and similar photocatalysts find valuable applications in several domains:

  1. Air and Water Purification: These photocatalysts are utilized in the degradation of pollutants, contributing to environmental remediation.
  2. Self-Cleaning Surfaces: Applied in coatings for surfaces, photocatalysts enable self-cleaning upon exposure to light, revolutionizing maintenance processes.
  3. Solar Energy Conversion: Playing a pivotal role in specific aspects of solar energy conversion processes, these catalysts contribute to harnessing renewable energy.
Important Points:
  • Researchers at IISER Bhopal have developed a revolutionary photocatalyst called UC-POP-Au with the ability to absorb the entire light spectrum, making it a potent catalyst for chemical processes.
  • Photocatalysts, combining “photo” and “catalyst,” alter chemical reaction rates when exposed to light, generating free charges (electrons and holes) that actively participate in reactions.
  • All photocatalysts are essentially semiconductors, with various materials exhibiting photocatalytic capabilities, and titanium dioxide (TiO2) is recognized as highly effective.
  • Homogeneous photocatalysis occurs when the semiconductor and reactant share the same phase, while heterogeneous photocatalysis involves different phases for the semiconductor and reactant.
  • UC-POP-Au and similar photocatalysts find applications in air and water purification, degrading pollutants for environmental remediation.
  • These catalysts are applied to self-cleaning surfaces, forming coatings that enable surfaces to clean themselves upon exposure to light, transforming maintenance processes.
  • Photocatalysts also play a pivotal role in certain aspects of solar energy conversion processes, contributing to harnessing renewable energy.
  • The diverse applications of UC-POP-Au highlight its versatility and transformative impact in various scientific and technological domains.
  • This breakthrough represents a significant stride in science and technology, offering innovative solutions for environmental challenges, surface maintenance, and renewable energy conversion.
Why In News

Researchers at IISER Bhopal recently developed a groundbreaking new photocatalyst called UC-POP-Au, which absorbs the entire spectrum of light, making it a potent catalyst for chemical processes. This innovative material shows great promise in advancing sustainable technologies by harnessing solar energy efficiently.

MCQs about Photocatalyst

  1. What is UC-POP-Au?
    A. A new chemical element
    B. A revolutionary photocatalyst
    C. A type of solar panel
    D. A cleaning solution
    Correct Answer: B. A revolutionary photocatalyst
    Explanation: UC-POP-Au is a revolutionary photocatalyst developed by researchers at IISER Bhopal, capable of absorbing the entire light spectrum.
  2. What is the essential property of photocatalysts?
    A. High melting point
    B. Absorption of light
    C. Magnetic properties
    D. Conductivity
    Correct Answer: B. Absorption of light
    Explanation: Photocatalysts alter chemical reaction rates when exposed to light, generating free charges (electrons and holes) that actively participate in reactions.
  3. What is a characteristic of heterogeneous photocatalysis?
    A. Same phase for semiconductor and reactant
    B. Different phases for semiconductor and reactant
    C. Involves only liquids
    D. No generation of free charges
    Correct Answer: B. Different phases for semiconductor and reactant
    Explanation: Heterogeneous photocatalysis involves different phases for the semiconductor and reactant.
  4. In which application area is UC-POP-Au likely to be used?
    A. Cooking appliances
    B. Surface maintenance coatings
    C. Automotive fuel systems
    D. Clothing manufacturing
    Correct Answer: B. Surface maintenance coatings
    Explanation: UC-POP-Au and similar photocatalysts find applications in surface maintenance coatings, enabling self-cleaning surfaces upon exposure to light, revolutionizing maintenance processes.

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