Co-hydrogenation of CO2 and CO to methanol: a perspective

Abstract

Abstract Metallurgy represents the primary source of CO 2 emission within China's industrial sector. Blast furnace gas (BFG), rich in CO 2 and CO from ironmaking, serves as the principal contributor to carbon emissions. Transforming these carbon molecules into high-value chemicals or energy products is essential for achieving carbon neutrality in the steel industry. Traditional technologies require extensive separation and purification processes for BFG's CO 2 and CO, resulting in significant energy consumption. Consequently, a major challenge facing the steel industry in advancing flue gas carbon capture lies in developing cost-effective and energy-efficient solutions. This perspective outlines our latest advancements in CO 2 -CO co-hydrogenation for methanol production from BFG. We introduce an innovative approach by integrating blue hydrogen derived from chemical looping, green hydrogen obtained through water electrolysis, and hydrogen sourced from industrial by-products to enhance co-hydrogenation processes. This multifaceted strategy aims to improve carbon sequestration while promoting sustainable hydrogen utilization within chemical production. By developing catalysts for both hydrogen production pathways, we have established high-performance hydrogen reserves. Additionally, we have designed advanced core–shell thermal storage catalysts to optimize methanol synthesis via CO 2 -CO co-hydrogenation. Our research emphasizes the identification of advanced catalytic materials resilient to varying temperatures and pressures—an essential factor for effective hydrogenation. The prepared Cu–ZnO–ZrO 2 catalyst for CO 2 -CO co-hydrogenation achieved a remarkable 52.8% increase in methanol selectivity compared to its commercial counterparts. Additionally, further insights into heat transfer and storage mechanisms will enhance process efficiency, thereby improving energy management and reducing operational costs. This study aims to establish a robust framework addressing carbon emissions while fostering a circular economy through efficient use of resources. The development of a cyclic catalytic system will facilitate industrial-scale CO 2 -CO co-hydrogenation for methanol production, contributing significantly to sustainable development initiatives focused on energy savings and carbon reduction. Graphical abstract

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