(237d) Electrochemical Carbon Capture and Conversion to CO

Electrochemical CO₂ reduction (CO₂RR) is an emerging technology capable of converting carbon dioxide (CO₂) into value-added chemicals and fuels. Significant advances have been made to advance catalyst and reactor design over the last two decades, and exceptionally high selectivity to C1 and C2 products have been reported. However, today most electrolytic systems still suffer from low carbon utilization. High carbon dioxide utilization is increasingly important if electrolytic technologies are to be combined with carbon capture systems. Thus, here we examine the use of a bipolar membrane (BPM) based electrolysis cell for the direct conversion of carbon capture solutions instead of gas phase CO2. We will discuss how the cell is capable of obtaining near 100% carbon dioxide utilization. Furthermore, the device also has exceptionally high conversion to CO (FE approaching 100%). One critical bottleneck with the BPM cell is the acidic conditions near the cathode. Thus, here we will discuss how mass transport can be tuned in the cathode through the introduction of porous films. We will discuss the impact single-atom nickel catalysts play in steering product selectivity. Finally, we will discuss the energetics and costs associated with bipolar membrane electrolytic carbon capture and conversion systems.