  The iron thiolate complex is a simplified model of the active site of diiron
hydrogenase enzymes. Here, we describe the implementation of this noble metal
free catalyst in aqueous solutions using eosin Y as photosensitizer and
triethylamine as an electron donor in an experimental bench specially designed
for the study of H2 photoproduction. The bench is composed of an adjustable
visible light source, a fully equipped flat torus photoreactor and analytical
devices. Rates of H2 production under varied experimental conditions were
obtained from an accurate measurement of pressure increase. A spectral
radiative analysis involving blue photons of the source primarily absorbed has
been carried out. Results have proven the rate of H2 production is proportional
to the mean volumetric rate of radiant light absorbed demonstrating a linear
thermokinetic coupling. The bio-inspired catalyst has proven non-limiting and
reveals interesting capabilities for future large scale H2 production.
