Combining experimental and theoretical insights for reduction of CO2 to multi-carbon compounds

Ian Brewis,Abdesslem Jedidi,Shahid Rasul,Robert W Field,Rana-Faisal Shahzad

doi:10.1007/s43938-022-00009-y

Ian Brewis, Abdesslem Jedidi + Show 3 more

Open Access

https://doi.org/10.1007/s43938-022-00009-y

Copy DOI

Abstract

The electrochemical reduction of carbon dioxide is a promising method for both recycling of atmospheric CO2 and storing renewably produced electrical energy in stable chemical bonds. In this paper, we review the current challenges within this promising area of research. Here we provide an overview of key findings from the perspective of improving the selectivity of reduction products, to serve as a contextual foundation from which a firmer understanding of the field can be built. Additionally, we discuss recent innovations in the development of catalytic materials selective toward C3 and liquid products. Through this, we form a basis from which key mechanisms into C3 products may be further examined. Carbon–carbon (C–C) bond formation provides a key step in the reduction of CO2 to energy dense and high value fuels. Here we demonstrate how variations in catalytic surface morphology and reaction kinetics influence the formation of multi-carbon products through their impact on the formation of C–C bonds. Finally, we discuss recent developments in the techniques used to characterise and model novel electrocatalysts. Through these insights, we hope to provide the reader with a perspective of both the rapid progress of the field of electrocatalysis, as well as offering a concise overview of the challenges faced by researchers within this rapidly developing field of research.

Highlights

Fossil fuels form the cornerstone of industrial and economic growth globally, accounting for over 87% of the world’s total energy consumption [1, 2]
The burning of such large quantities of fossil fuels, in the transport sector, has resulted in the uncontrolled release of CO2 into the atmosphere, significantly contributing toward climate change [3–5]. This realisation has led to considerable efforts being made to transition from fossil fuels toward low carbon and renewable alternatives such as biofuels, hydroelectric power, solar, wind, geothermal, and nuclear energy [1]
By employing Density functional theory (DFT) and the computational hydrogen electrode model (CHE), calculations can be performed on an atomic scale

Summary

Introduction

Fossil fuels form the cornerstone of industrial and economic growth globally, accounting for over 87% of the world’s total energy consumption [1, 2]. Based on global consumption levels as of 2015 and the remaining supply of fossil fuels at that time, it was estimated that around 50 years of oil and gas remain [2] The burning of such large quantities of fossil fuels, in the transport sector, has resulted in the uncontrolled release of CO2 into the atmosphere, significantly contributing toward climate change [3–5]. This realisation has led to considerable efforts being made to transition from fossil fuels toward low carbon and renewable alternatives such as biofuels, hydroelectric power, solar, wind, geothermal, and nuclear energy [1].

Objectives

Methods

Findings

Conclusion