The future of low-temperature carbon dioxide electrolysis depends on solving one basic problem
Joshua A. Rabinowitz, Matthew W. Kanan
Abstract
Carbonate formation is the primary source of energy and carbon losses in low-temperature carbon dioxide electrolysis. Realigning research priorities to address the carbonate problem is essential if this technology is to become a viable option for renewable chemical and fuel production. Low-temperature carbon dioxide electrolysis is an attractive process for sustainable fuel synthesis, but current systems suffer from low efficiency. In this comment, authors discuss the limitations arising from the reaction between carbon dioxide and hydroxide, highlighting the need for new research to address this fundamental problem.
Topics & Concepts
ElectrolysisCarbon dioxideRenewable energyCarbonateCarbon dioxide removalProcess engineeringEnvironmental scienceProcess (computing)Carbon fibersHydroxideWaste managementChemical engineeringMaterials scienceComputer scienceChemistryEngineeringElectrolyteOrganic chemistryComposite numberOperating systemElectrodeElectrical engineeringPhysical chemistryComposite materialCO2 Reduction Techniques and CatalystsCarbon dioxide utilization in catalysisCarbon Dioxide Capture Technologies