Next-Generation Self-Supported Electrocatalysts for Direct Conversion of Flue Gas into Ethylene (FG2E)

Objetivo

Capturing emitted CO2 from industrial processes and valorizing that through electrochemical processes to high-value chemicals, which are largely demanded in different sectors, is a promising measure to address environmental challenges and expedite the green transition. However, a fully featured CO2 electrolyzer, as the cornerstone of this process, is the unmet need in this pathway. Such electrolyzers, in particular, critically lack core functional elements of the machine with high durability and electrochemical activity, as well as a precise structure to improve the system operation at the lowest operation and capital costs. This project (FG2E) proposes and validates a game-changing approach for optimal design and fabrication of these elements for CO2 electrolyzers, which will be very promising not only for CO2 electrolysis processes but also any other electrochemical processes critically needing such optimally designed and manufactured elements. FG2E will push boundaries of state-of-the-art through a) proposing its innovative CO2 electrolysis element at optimal structure, b) developing the fundamental theories and models covering the entire process from structural optimization to fabrication, and c) experimentally validating its performance and simulation results. The project contributes to SDG-7 on clean & affordable energy; SDG-9 on industry innovation & infrastructure; and SDG-13 on climate action.