Conversion of carbon dioxide to methanol: A comprehensive review

Abstract

This review explains the various methods of conversion of Carbon dioxide (CO2) to methanol by using homogenous, heterogeneous catalysts through hydrogenation, photochemical, electrochemical, and photo-electrochemical techniques. Since, CO2 is the major contributor to global warming, its utilization for the production of fuels and chemicals is one of the best ways to save our environment in a sustainable manner. However, as the CO2 is very stable and less reactive, a proper method and catalyst development is most important to break the CO2 bond to produce valuable chemicals like methanol. Litertaure says the catalyt types, ratio and it surface structure along with the temperature and pressure are the most controlling parameters to optimize the process for the production of methanol from CO2. This article explains about the various controlling parameters of synthesis of Methanol from CO2 along with the advantages and drawbacks of each process. The mechanism of each synthesis process in presence of metal supported catalyst is described. Basically the activity of Cu supported catalyst and its stability based on the activity for the methanol synthesis from CO2 through various methods is critically described.