Professor Nikolay Kornienko, who conducted the research at the University of Bonn after moving from the University of Montreal, explained that methane production presents challenges due to the need to react a gas with a liquid. "We used electricity as the driving force instead," explains Kornienko. "By using climate friendly electricity, we can produce, for example, methane that doesn't contribute to global warming."
A gas diffusion electrode was used to bring carbon dioxide and water together. During the reaction, oxygen atoms are removed from CO2 and replaced with hydrogen atoms sourced from water, resulting in methane. However, the process risks side reactions, such as water splitting into hydrogen and oxygen. As Kornienko's assistant, Morgan McKee, emphasized, "We have to prevent the water coming into contact with the electrode" to ensure efficient methane production.
The catalyst plays a critical role by accelerating the CO2 reaction. It features an "active center" that weakens the bond between the carbon and oxygen atoms in CO2, enabling the replacement with hydrogen atoms while minimizing unwanted reactions. Hydrophobic molecular side chains keep water at bay while transporting hydrogen atoms to the active center for reaction with carbon.
With over 80 percent efficiency and minimal side products, this catalyst shows promise. However, it is not yet suitable for large-scale methane production. Kornienko suggested that the method could be applied to other catalysts for large-scale applications, particularly for producing chemical compounds like ethylene, a key material in plastic production.
Research Report:Hydrophobic molecular assembly at the gas-liquid-solid interface drives highly selective CO2 electromethanation
Related Links
Institute for Inorganic Chemistry at University of Bonn
Bio Fuel Technology and Application News
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