A series of Fe(III) complexes were recently reported that are stable and active electrocatalysts for reducing protons into hydrogen gas. Herein, we report the incorporation of these electrocatalysts into a photocatalytic system for hydrogen production. Hydrogen evolution is observed when these catalysts are paired with fluorescein (chromophore) and triethylamine (sacrificial electron source) in a 1:1 ethanol:water mixture. The photocatalytic system is highly active and stable, achieving TONs > 2100 (with respect to catalyst) after 24 h. Catalysis proceeds through a reductive quenching pathway with a quantum yield of over 3%.

A series of Fe(iii) complexes was recently reported that are active for photocatalytic hydrogen generation when paired with fluorescein and triethylamine. Herein we report an Fe(iii) complex immobilized on TiO2 and SrTiO3 that is significantly more active than the homogeneous system, achieving up to 7800 turnovers in 31 hours.