The Fritz-Haber-Institut (FHI) of the Max-Planck-Gesellschaft reports on a „groundbreaking study by the Interface Science Department at the Fritz-Haber-Institut and the Institute of Chemical Research of Catalonia“. According to Dr. Jelena Tomovic (FHI), the reference article entitled „Key intermediates and Cu active sites for CO2 electroreduction to ethylene and ethanol“ which was previously published in the journal Nature Energy, shows „advanced spectroscopic methods and theoretical calculations to shed light on the complex processes involved in the conversion of carbon dioxide (CO2) into valuable chemicals such as ethylene and ethanol“. The findings from the research are of great importance for sustainable production in the chemical industry.
CO2 reduction to valuable chemicals
With the technology of electrochemical reduction of CO2 (CO2RR), carbon dioxide is converted into valuable chemicals using renewable electricity, which also closes the CO2 cycle. Ethylene and ethanol play a decisive role in the production of environmentally friendly plastics and fuels - these substances are at the centre of the study.
„However, the exact mechanisms and intermediate steps of this conversion have so far remained unclear. Mechanistic understanding is crucial in order to be able to rationally produce the active centres of the catalysts [...]“, summarises Dr. Tomovic.
Findings could be decisive for the chemical industry
According to Tomovic, the insights gained from spectroscopic investigations and crucial findings on surface morphology, which can be read in detail in the study, could have a decisive impact on the chemical industry - especially when it comes to the production of fuels and plastics. There is an opportunity to develop „more efficient and sustainable catalysts“, which could „lead to more effective ways of using CO2 and reduce the carbon footprint of chemical manufacturing processes“, Dr. Tomovic continues.
Future significance for CO2 reduction
„The research of the Interface Science Department at the Fritz Haber Institute and the Institute of Chemical Research of Catalonia represents a significant advance in the field of CO2 reduction“, recapitulates Dr. Jelena Tomovic. „By revealing key intermediates and active centres in the production of ethylene and ethanol, this study provides a basis for the development of more efficient and sustainable catalytic processes. The results not only advance scientific knowledge, but also enable practical solutions to reduce CO2 emissions and promote sustainable chemical production in the future.“
You can find the original publication here: https://www.nature.com/articles/s41560-024-01633-4
