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Charles University scientists develop photocathode to convert CO2 into ethanol
Researchers from Charles University have developed an advanced photocathode capable of converting carbon dioxide into ethanol using solar energy. The breakthrough, led by Pavla Eliášová in collaboration with Tomáš Hrbek, addresses a major hurdle in green chemistry: the rapid degradation of copper oxide in water.
To solve this, the team engineered a 'nano-sandwich' structure. This involves combining copper oxide with two-dimensional MXene materials and applying an ultra-thin layer of titanium dioxide through controlled heating. The MXene component facilitates rapid electrical charge transfer, which prevents the copper oxide from decomposing and allows the material to remain active for several hours of continuous operation.
This technology offers a potential pathway for the sustainable production of eco-friendly liquid fuels. Beyond the chemical industry, the researchers noted that the process could theoretically be applied in the food industry for the production of distillates.
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- [● 3 SOURCES] The researchers created a 'nano-sandwich' structure to prevent the rapid degradation of copper oxide in water. ekolist.cz · vedanadosah.cvtisr.sk · www.novinky.cz
- [● 3 SOURCES] The device combines copper oxide with 2D MXene materials and an ultra-thin layer of titanium dioxide. ekolist.cz · vedanadosah.cvtisr.sk · www.novinky.cz
- [● 3 SOURCES] The technology utilizes a solar reactor where a photocathode absorbs light to enable the chemical reaction. ekolist.cz · vedanadosah.cvtisr.sk · www.novinky.cz
- [● 3 SOURCES] The MXene structure allows the material to remain active for many hours of operation. ekolist.cz · vedanadosah.cvtisr.sk · www.novinky.cz
- [● 3 SOURCES] Scientists from Charles University developed an advanced photocathode to convert CO2 into ethanol using sunlight. ekolist.cz · vedanadosah.cvtisr.sk · www.novinky.cz