FURI | Fall 2024

The Use of POMs in Photocatalytic CO2 Reduction

Sustainability icon, disabled. A green leaf.

In this lab, the research team will be studying the use of POMs (polyoxometalates) as a photocatalyst during CO2 reduction. POMs are cluster compounds that are composed of transition metal oxides linked together by oxygen atoms. These compounds have unique properties and can play a role in the conversion of CO2 to useful fuels through light absorption. In this lab, the researchers will modify variables within the POMs, such as the metal centers, in order to examine the effect on the desired products of the reduction. By using POMs, this lab hopes to contribute to the mitigation of climate change.

Student researcher

Connor Matthew Moyaerts

Chemical engineering

Hometown: Phoenix, Arizona, United States

Graduation date: Spring 2026