Jimmy C. Yu is an emeritus professor at The Chinese University of Hong Kong. Before retiring from teaching, he was Choh-Ming Li Professor of Chemistry and Head of United College. Professor Yu received a B.S. degree from St. Martin’s College and a Ph.D. degree from the University of Idaho. He has been a highly cited researcher for many years. His major research interest is photocatalysis, and he holds several patents on the fabrication and application of photocatalytic nanomaterials. Dr. Yu has received numerous honors including a State Natural Science Award.

Photocatalysis is a common phenomenon. When a photocatalyst is exposed to light of sufficient energy, it can generate powerful chemical species to speed up reactions. Many naturally occurring minerals including titanium dioxide can be used as photocatalysts. Systematic studies on these materials started about a century ago. The fabrication of traditional photocatalysts and their chemical modifications will be discussed in the first part of the talk. This will be followed by the search of new photocatalysts that are based on earth-abundant substances. Application examples will be provided, and the potential of photocatalysis in chemical conversion for a sustainable future will also be examined.

All those who are interested in the topic are encouraged to attend the lecture!