A method is now available to produce non-aggregating
semiconducting particles in water
Conversion of water into hydrogen is a fundamental reaction
powered by light, but the lack of suitable artificial drivers, or
photocatalysts, for this reaction has hampered its commercial development.
Platinum-decorated semiconductor nanoparticles are expected to fill this gap;
however, production of these tiny particles typically requires high-temperature
metal deposition or ultraviolet irradiation techniques in organic solvents.
When synthesized in water, as a benign alternative, the particles tend to form
clumps during metal deposition.