Novel Gas-Diffusion Electrodes for Carbon Dioxide Electroreduction

ABSTRACT: As security of fossil fuel sources is diminishing, the generation of synthetic fuels may constitute a significant strategic capability for the USAF. GES and the INL propose novel catalysts and electrochemical cell components for the electroreduction of carbon dioxide to syngas. Catalyst composition will be formulated to optimize both product selectivity and cell efficiency. A preliminary design for a system yielding syngas at a hydrogen-carbon monoxide ratio of 3:1 will be produced. BENEFIT: The efficient electroreduction of carbon dioxide is a potentially critical emissions abatement technology for the future. Carbon dioxide generated from fossil fuels could be captured and utilized in the manufacture of valuable hydrocarbon products, with carbon dioxide capture-credits (or the like) playing significantly into the economics. Our engineered solutions will advance this carbon dioxide utilization technology toward an integrated jet fuel synthesis system for which there is an emerging need in the military arena.