Copper-Catalyzed CO2 Electroreduction Utilizing Zeolite-Templated Carbon Supports

Global reliance on fossil fuels and the expansion of industry has led to a continuous rise in CO2 emissions and directly contributed to climate change since the 19th century. Consequently, global research efforts are now focusing on fuel-production technologies that mitigate CO2 emissions. One promising alternative is CO2 electroreduction, which utilizes renewable energy to convert CO2 to other fuels and chemicals. Previous studies of CO2 electroreduction report the production of light hydrocarbons when using copper-based electrocatalysts. However, data suggests that using microporous carbons may favor the formation of heavier hydrocarbons, which serve as a more efficient fuel source. Zeolite-templated carbons (ZTCs) are microporous carbons that can be synthesized using zeolite templates. The standard practice of ZTC synthesis used includes furfuryl alcohol impregnation, propylene chemical vapor deposition, heat treatment, and hydrofluoric acid etching to obtain the carbon product. Copper nanoparticles were then deposited on the surface of the ZTC via cetrimonium bromide (CTAB) reflux, followed by electrochemical deposition. Electrochemical tests were performed to assess the catalytic activity of the material. Gas diffusion electrodes were then used to reduce CO2 into alkenes with the copper containing ZTC serving as the catalytic site. Current, hydrocarbon weight, and gas/liquid product was subsequently measured and analyzed. This study aims to interpret the structural integrity of ZTC formation at each step of the synthesis. Moreover, this study looks to clarify how the synthesis and structure of ZTCs relate to their electrochemical performance and reduction of CO2, in comparison to commercial carbons. The results have provided an understanding of how adjustments to the synthesis protocol correspond to variability in porosity, structural order, and catalytic activity of the ZTCs when used for CO2 electroreduction.