Breakthrough method turns CO₂ into fuel in 15 minutes
Scientists from Tohoku University, Hokkaido University, and AZUL Energy have developed an innovative method for converting carbon dioxide into synthetic fuel in just 15 minutes. The key question is whether this breakthrough technology can significantly help in reducing CO₂ emissions.
The research team from Tohoku University, Hokkaido University, and AZUL Energy has devised a novel technique for transforming carbon dioxide (CO₂) into carbon monoxide (CO), a crucial component of synthetic fuels. This new process cuts the conversion time down from 24 hours to merely 15 minutes, marking a significant advancement in the field.
New method of CO₂ conversion
Liu Tengyi from WPI-AIMR at Tohoku University points out that traditional methods were both costly and unstable. The new technology employs various types of phthalocyanines, with cobalt (CoPc) being the most effective. This process involves applying the catalyst to gas electrodes using a spray technique.
The system maintains stability for 144 hours at a density of approximately 0.97 A/in², making it the most efficient phthalocyanine-based catalyst yet. Structural studies have revealed that crystallization results in dense molecular packing, which enhances electron transfer.
Breakthrough in synthetic fuel production
These findings underscore that direct crystallization is an effective strategy for manufacturing catalyst electrodes based on metal complexes. This approach could revolutionize synthetic fuel production by improving energy efficiency and reducing costs associated with CO₂ utilization.
The method of manufacturing gas diffusion electrodes, coupled with CO₂ electrolysis technology, shows that carbon monoxide synthesis is a promising avenue for reducing emissions by creating alternatives to oil. The process only requires inexpensive pigment catalysts.
