Enhanced CO2 reduction efficiency through tailored metal-support interactions in electrocatalysts

Title : Enhanced CO2 reduction efficiency through tailored metal-support interactions in electrocatalysts

Abstract:

The widespread emission of CO₂, pervasive across diverse facets of human activity, has profoundly impacted global economic sustainability. One promising strategy to mitigate this anthropogenic carbon footprint involves the electrochemical reduction of CO₂. This transformative process harnesses intermittent renewable energy sources like solar and wind to synthesize valuable fuels and feedstocks. Our research mainly aims to convert substantial industrial CO₂ emissions into high-value products, thereby mitigating overall CO₂ release and fostering sustainable economic growth. Both enhancing the synthesis of high-value products and reducing CO₂ emissions represent beneficial strategies. In this study, we propose developing a novel class of catalysts built upon the concept of metal-support interactions, and we will systematically investigate the individual and synergistic effects of these catalysts. This research aims to advance fundamental understanding of electrocatalytic mechanisms and facilitate practical applications. Consequently, this study is poised to contribute significantly to the existing knowledge base by refining our comprehension of the CO₂ electroreduction process. The only metal that can efficiently produce hydrocarbons by CO₂ electroreduction is copper. Hence, it will be distributed as nanoparticles on a metal oxide substrate, mostly using transition metal oxides. The formaldehyde reduction process will be used to prepare the supported catalyst. Electrochemical investigations were performed in two distinct environments: carbon dioxide and nitrogen.  Both liquid and gaseous products' Faradaic efficiencies were computed. This work intends to deepen our understanding of electrocatalytic processes while also offering useful insights for research applications. The results are anticipated to make a substantial contribution to the larger area of CO₂ conversion and electrocatalysis by expanding our understanding of the CO₂ electroreduction process.

Biography:

Akanksha Sharma completed her Masters in Chemistry from Samrat Prithvi raj Chauhan Govt College, Ajmer, Rajasthan, in 2019. She then joined the research group of Dr Aditi Singhal in 2020 at the School of Engineering and Applied Sciences at Ahmedabad University. She is also working as a Teaching Assistant at Ahmedabad University.