Transition metal complexes as chromophores and catalysts for artificial photosynthesis

This thesis contributes to the growing field of artificial photosynthesis, with a focus on developing our understanding of photo- and electrocatalytic CO2 reduction in artificial systems. Such systems rely on transition metal complexes to act as catalysts, photosensitisers, or both. The key aspects of this project were to (i) understand the activation mechanism for Mn(I), and Re(I) CO2 reduction catalysts through electrochemical studies; (ii) understand the ultrafast relaxation processes of Re(I) photocatalysts and Pt(II) chromophores following visible light excitation; and (iii) further develop Re(I) photocatalysts and Zn(II) photosensitisers that can effectively harvest red light.