A Perspective on Solar-Driven Electrochemical Routes for Sustainable Methanol Production

Pendse, Aaditya; Prajapati, Aditya

doi:10.3390/suschem5010002

A Perspective on Solar-Driven Electrochemical Routes for Sustainable Methanol Production

Journal Article · Wed Mar 06 00:00:00 EST 2024 · Sustainable Chemistry

DOI:https://doi.org/10.3390/suschem5010002· OSTI ID:2325217

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Lawrence Livermore National Laboratory (LLNL), Livermore, CA (United States)

The transition towards sustainable and renewable energy sources is imperative in mitigating the environmental impacts of escalating global energy consumption. Methanol, with its versatile applications and potential as a clean energy carrier, a precursor chemical, and a valuable commodity, emerges as a promising solution within the realm of renewable energy technologies. This work explores the integration of electrochemistry with solar power to drive efficient methanol production processes, focusing on electrochemical reduction (ECR) of CO₂ and methane oxidation reaction (MOR) as pathways for methanol synthesis. Through detailed analysis and calculations, we evaluate the thermodynamic limits and realistic solar-to-fuel (STF) efficiencies of ECR and MOR. Our investigation encompasses the characterization of multijunction light absorbers, determination of thermoneutral potentials, and assessment of STF efficiencies under varying conditions. We identify the challenges and opportunities inherent in both ECR and MOR pathways, shedding light on catalyst stability, reaction kinetics, and system optimization, thereby providing insights into the prospects and challenges of solar-driven methanol synthesis, offering a pathway towards a cleaner and more sustainable energy future.

View Accepted Manuscript (DOE)

Research Organization:: Lawrence Livermore National Laboratory (LLNL), Livermore, CA (United States)

Sponsoring Organization:: USDOE National Nuclear Security Administration (NNSA)

Grant/Contract Number:: AC52-07NA27344

OSTI ID:: 2325217

Report Number(s):: LLNL--JRNL-860117; 1091141

Journal Information:: Sustainable Chemistry, Journal Name: Sustainable Chemistry Journal Issue: 1 Vol. 5; ISSN 2673-4079

Publisher:: MDPICopyright Statement

Country of Publication:: United States

Language:: English

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30 DIRECT ENERGY CONVERSION
electrochemical reduction of CO2
methane oxidation reaction
methanol production
renewable energy integration
solar-driven electrochemistry
solar-to-fuel efficiency

A Perspective on Solar-Driven Electrochemical Routes for Sustainable Methanol Production

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