Recently, renewable energies, such as solar and wind power, have been installed as electricity power sources, while its extensive installation generates surplus electricity. Thus, the surplus electricity can be used for a conversion of CO2 into molecules for direct use in liquid fuel.
During the first half of the project, we have developed a novel catalyst for CO2 conversion that contains only non-precious elements.
Currently, the selectivity and efficiency of the conversion of the novel catalyst is being improved by chemical modification and exploring the combination of supports and catalyst to reach the target value.
We have also performed the synthesis of several inorganic nanocatalysts for the conversion of CO to hydrocarbons. After the synthesis and initial characterization, catalytic testing and screening has been performed. Our results show CO conversion however, further investigations are focused on reaching milder synthesis conditions than current ones. Selectivity to aviation fuels has not been achieved yet, which indicates that further optimization of the catalysts is required.
XRD, TGA, volumetry and in situ IR spectroscopy were employed to gain a deeper understanding into the catalytic properties of the different catalysts.
HRTEM, EDX and electron diffraction gave a view of the microstructure of the LDH (basal spacing, homogeneity, defects).
Various types of biocatalysts and biomimetic catalysts were screened for the organic-synthetic dehydration target reaction, and most promising catalysts have been prioritized. We could demonstrate that with the most suitable catalytic systems, dehydration can be conducted under mild reaction conditions and furnished the desired alkene products in good yield. Process optimization of this key step are currently ongoing.
HRTEM, EDX and electron diffraction gave a view of the microstructure of MOF (morphology and preliminary enzyme distribution).
Regarding the biocatalysts´ encapsulation into porous MOFs, the synthesis conditions of tetravalent metal-based MOFs have been softened down to room temperature. Overall, this synthesis protocol has allowed to achieve the first efficient encapsulation of a model enzyme into the material during its crystallization. In return, the activity of the enzyme once immobilized is partially affected in comparison to the one of the free biocatalysts. Alternative biomimetic systems are being developed as a mitigation plan to obtain a system able to work efficiently at mild conditions.
In case of inorganic supports manufacturing, supports for functionalization with MOF`s
and supports with lamellar porosity features for electrocatalysts have been developed.
Structural components for the cascade reactor have been preliminary designed and are subjected to optimization through the findings from their performance.
A plan for Communication, Dissemination and Awareness and a plan for Exploitation were developed. A project website has been developed (www.4aircraft-project.eu). The External Advisory Board has been engaged representing some of the world’s leading industries on sustainable fuels production for transport and petrochemical use as well as sustainable feedstock for specialty chemicals and other purposes among others.
