Abstract
All cyanobacteria, algae, and plants utilize a common water-oxidizing catalyst to drive the OER during photosynthesis. This catalyst, known as the WOC or OEC of PSII, features a MnCa cluster that carries out the OER with exceptional efficiency. The OER is not only fundamental to natural photosynthesis but is also recognized as a critical reaction in the context of artificial photosynthesis. Artificial photosynthesis holds great promise for sustainable energy solutions by potentially providing an inexpensive source of electrons derived from water. These electrons could be utilized for hydrogen production or the reduction of carbon dioxide, nitrogen, and other compounds, addressing global energy and environmental challenges. In this review, we focus on the intricate details of the OER, particularly the role of manganese complexes. We consider the proposed mechanisms by which manganese complexes catalyze the OER, offering insights into the underlying chemistry. Following this, we explore model complexes that have been developed to emulate the OER and address the common issue of Mn complexes decomposing into manganese oxide during the process.
This review discussed the role of manganese complexes in the oxygen-evolution reaction, focusing on their function in both natural and artificial photosynthesis systems.
• Photosystem II's oxygen-evolving complex inspires artificial systems for efficient oxygen-evolution reaction.
• Manganese complexes are interesting structural and functional models Photosystem II's oxygen-evolving complex.
• Some Manganese complexes transform into MnOx nanoparticles, acting as true catalysts for oxygen-evolution reaction.
• Self-repairing mechanisms in Mn catalysts could sustain activity over long operations under oxygen-evolution reaction.
• Multinuclear manganese clusters mimic photosystem II's oxygen-evolving complex, but stability remains a key challenge.