Backgrounds
《Mitigation of CO₂ by Chemical Conversion: Plausible Chemical Reactionsand Promising Products》, this paper provided inspiration for our sponsor and serves as the theoretical foundation for our proof-of-concept experiment. It discusses the potential for high-voltage methods in CO₂ decomposition within broader frameworks of chemical utilization and reduction strategies for greenhouse gas emissions. Key theories and approaches presented focus on utilizing CO₂ as an oxidizing agent and examining thermodynamic constraints to its chemical reactivity.
1. Thermodynamic and Catalytic Considerations
Due to COâ‚‚'s stable molecular structure, typical reactions require high energy inputs, often achieved by high temperature, pressure, or voltage. High-voltage applications can overcome this stability by providing the "free energy" needed to activate COâ‚‚, but the reactions remain endothermic, making catalysts essential to feasibly decrease energy requirements.
2. Use as an Oxidizing Agent
The paper highlights the potential of COâ‚‚ as a mild oxidizer in high-temperature environments, which is less reactive than Oâ‚‚ but suitable for controlled oxidation processes. In such reactions, the COâ‚‚ molecule can form transient complexes with metals, which can lower the activation energy, especially when subjected to high voltage or temperatures.
3. High-Voltage Electrochemical Reduction
COâ‚‚'s reduction into hydrocarbons or other valuable compounds, such as methanol, often involves electrochemical processes where high-voltage application could facilitate reduction pathways. Although this approach has shown promise, efficiency remains an issue, and practical applications require further advancements in catalyst development and process optimization to achieve sustainable COâ‚‚ reduction at an industrial scale.