Researchers from UT and the University of Copenhagen discovered that smaller ions in highly saline liquids can boost the efficiency of turning carbon dioxide into useful chemicals. This finding was published in a study on January 10. Read the study here.
They use electrolytes—salty liquids that conduct electricity—to spark reactions that convert carbon dioxide into valuable chemicals and fuels. This approach offers a new option compared to carbon capture, which involves trapping greenhouse gases to store them underground.
The study leader, Joaquin Resasco, likens this process to photosynthesis in plants. “Plants take carbon dioxide, water, and sunlight to create energy-rich molecules,” he explained. “We aim to replicate that by using carbon dioxide from the air and renewable electricity to produce something useful.”
To achieve this, the researchers developed artificial catalysts that function like enzymes. These catalysts help fuse carbon dioxide with water and other chemicals. Resasco, who teaches chemical engineering, noted that the technology is still in its early days, and they are working on improving it.
“Our methods are simpler and less effective than nature’s over millions of years,” Resasco said. “We’re trying to speed up the process and understand how these catalysts function to create better materials.”
The team also explored how the specific salt ions in the electrolyte affect the chemical reactions. They found that altering these ions can enhance the electric field and accelerate the conversion of carbon dioxide.
These advancements could play a significant role in reducing greenhouse gases. Carbon capture has faced mixed opinions due to its uncertain effectiveness on climate change. Some researchers are investigating the practicality and cost-effectiveness of this new technology. Resasco believes this is just the dawn of such innovations, with much potential ahead.
“We’re in the early stages, but there are many promising technologies that could make a difference,” Resasco shared. “The best course is to push these technologies forward and discover their future applications.”
