Grant: Discovery Grants Program - Individual

Lignin is a valuable but heavily underutilized biomass resource that demands value-added utilization. Producing hydrogen via photocatalytic water splitting is highly attractive for supplying renewable hydrogen and reducing CO2 emissions. However, the development of this process requires a photocatalyst that works under visible light. Carbon dots (CDs) are novel carbon nanomaterials with exciting catalytic properties, and CDs-based photocatalysts may enable water splitting hydrogen production under visible light. Since CDs are primarily synthesized using expensive chemicals, it is critical to produce them using inexpensive and renewable materials like lignin. So far, no research has been conducted on the synthesis pathways of lignin-based CDs (Lig.CDs) or their functioning mechanism in photocatalytic hydrogen production. Moreover, the high demand for clean water makes simultaneous photocatalytic hydrogen production and water purification appealing, but it has not been studied. In the short term, this program will 1) develop a new synthesis method of Lig.CDs with a high production yield, precise particle size, and homogeneity; 2) invent an innovative Lig.CDs-based photocatalyst that has high hydrogen production activity for photocatalytic water splitting; and 3) establish a feasible photocatalytic process for producing hydrogen from water while degrading water pollutants. The long-term objectives of this program are to develop various lignin and biomass-based nanoscale catalysts for different energy and environmental applications and substitute fossil-based hydrogen with hydrogen produced from the catalytic conversion of renewable resources. The novelty of this program lies in the fundamental understanding of the Lig.CDs' synthesis chemistry, and the invention of Lig.CDs-based photocatalysts that are active for hydrogen production under visible light. This program will enhance Canada's waste management and sustainable development strategies by promoting community energy access and contributing to a healthy environment. First, converting lignin waste into high-value materials will minimize waste generated from the pulp and paper industry and create new revenues in the Canadian bioeconomy. Second, the new hydrogen production process will provide the Canadian energy sector with renewable hydrogen, significantly reducing fossil fuel consumption and carbon emissions. Moreover, commercializing and implementing the developed technology in remote areas will provide sustainable hydrogen energy and supply clean water to promote the health of the remote communities. Furthermore, the program will provide HQPs with solid expertise in renewable hydrogen production and biomass conversion technologies. Overall, this research program will foster Canada's global leadership in bioresource utilization, hydrogen energy system development, and transition into a net zero society.