Solar energy can be used to convert CO2 and methane, potent greenhouse gases, into high-value products for the production of fertilizers, plastics or even pharmaceuticals. In this post we find out about the materials needed catalyse this conversion.
Turning sunlight into a liquid fuel might sound like the fantasy machinations of a sci-fi novel. A fuel that is abundant, sustainable, storable, and a portable source of energy? The reality is possibly even more exciting. Solar fuels could use energy in sunlight to convert CO2 and methane, potent greenhouse gases, into high-value products, such as fertilizers, plastics or pharmaceuticals.
Electrocatalysts could be an energy game-changer. They could allow us to generate electricity, and produce fuels like petrol and diesel, using naturally abundant substances. Predicting a specific catalyst for any reaction will soon be within reach. It looks like the best days of the alchemist might still be ahead.