Abstract
Generating electric power using CO2 as a reactant is challenging because the electroreduction of CO2 usually requires a large overpotential. Herein, we report the design and development of a polymer electrolyte fuel cell driven by feeding H2 and CO2 to the anode (Pt/C) and cathode (Pt0.8Ru0.2/C), respectively, based on their theoretical electrode potentials. Pt–Ru/C is a promising electrocatalysts for CO2 reduction at a low overpotential; consequently, CH4 is continuously produced through CO2 reduction with an enhanced faradaic efficiency (18.2%) and without an overpotential (at 0.20 V vs. RHE) was achieved when dilute CO2 is fed at a cell temperature of 40 °C. Significantly, the cell generated electric power (0.14 mW cm−2) while simultaneously yielding CH4 at 86.3 μmol g−1 h−1. These results show that a H2-CO2 fuel cell is a promising technology for promoting the carbon capture and utilization (CCU) strategy.
Highlights
Generating electric power using CO2 as a reactant is challenging because the electroreduction of CO2 usually requires a large overpotential
Where * represents an active site on the metal catalyst. It follows that placing C Oads and Hads in the appropriate ratio on the metal surface is important for CH4 production, and this is realized by controlling the CO2-feed concentration as well as the electrode potential in the case of a Pt c atalyst[24]
We investigated the reduction of C O2 using membrane electrode assembly (MEA) incorporated with Pt-Ru electrocatalysts and revealed that the C H4-generation efficiencies at the theoretical potential follow the order: Pt/C < P t0.5Ru0.5/C < Pt0.8Ru0.2/C when 100 vol% CO2 was supplied[31]
Summary
Generating electric power using CO2 as a reactant is challenging because the electroreduction of CO2 usually requires a large overpotential. Developing methods that ensure that the CO2-electroreduction reaction occurs with a small overpotential and a high energy-conversion efficiency is important In this regard, platinum group metals have the potential to realize overpotential-free C O2 reductions. Where * represents an active site on the metal catalyst It follows that placing C Oads and Hads in the appropriate ratio on the metal surface is important for CH4 production, and this is realized by controlling the CO2-feed concentration as well as the electrode potential in the case of a Pt c atalyst[24].
Sign-in/Register to view highlights & summary Sign-in/Register to access full text options 
Talk to us
Join us for a 30 min session where you can share your feedback and ask us any queries you have
Schedule a call
