The innovation utilizes patent-pending switchable Dual Function Materials (DFMs), that catch carbon dioxide on their surface and catalyze the conversion of caught CO2 straight into chemicals. The “switchable” nature of the DFMs comes from their capability to produce multiple chemicals depending on the operating conditions or the composition of the added reactant. This makes the innovation responsive to variations in need for chemicals in addition to the availability of eco-friendly hydrogen as a reactant.
Dr. Duyar continued: “These results are a testimony to the research study excellence at Surrey, with continually improving centers, internal funding plans, and a collaborative culture.”
Loukia-Pantzechroula Merkouri, a postgraduate trainee leading this research at the University of Surrey added: “Not only does this research study show a practical service to the production of carbon neutral fuels and chemicals, but it likewise uses an ingenious method to fight the ever-increasing CO2 emissions adding to international warming.”
Recommendation: “Feasibility of switchable double function products as a flexible technology for CO2 capture and utilisation and evidence of passive direct air capture” by Loukia-Pantzechroula Merkouri, Tomas Ramirez Reina and Melis S. Duyar, 11 August 2022, Nanoscale.DOI: 10.1039/ D2NR02688K.
The study was made possible through the Surrey Doctoral College Studentship Award.
The technology might enable the improvement of CO2 into helpful chemicals such as carbon monoxide gas and artificial natural gas in one circular process.
According to research study from the University of Surrey, it is possible to catch CO2 from the atmosphere and transform it into chemicals that are generally stemmed from nonrenewable fuel sources.
The innovation makes it possible for scientists to record CO2 and transform it into beneficial substances like carbon monoxide gas and artificial natural gas in a single, continuous procedure, possibly resulting in more sustainable methods of chemical production.
Dr. Melis Duyar, Senior Lecturer of Chemical Engineering at the University of Surrey commented: “Capturing CO2 from the surrounding air and directly converting it into beneficial products is exactly what we require to approach carbon neutrality in the chemicals sector. With this technology, we can provide chemicals with a much lower carbon footprint and look at replacing fossil fuels with carbon dioxide and eco-friendly hydrogen as the building blocks of other essential chemicals.”