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Researchers from the U.S. Department of Energy’s Brookhaven National Laboratory and Columbia University have developed a novel method to convert atmospheric carbon dioxide (CO2) into valuable carbon nanofibers (CNFs) through tandem electrocatalytic and thermocatalytic reactions. This innovative process combines electrochemical reactions at ambient conditions to produce syngas (carbon monoxide and hydrogen) from CO2 and water, followed by a heat-driven transformation to CNFs at approximately 400 °C. The carbon nanofibers can be utilized to enhance cement, sequestering carbon for decades and contributing to greenhouse gas mitigation efforts. Additionally, the process generates hydrogen gas as a clean fuel byproduct.
The researchers utilized unique catalysts, including a palladium-based electrocatalyst for the first reaction and an iron-cobalt alloy for the second, allowing for efficient production of CNFs without the extreme temperatures typically required. Their approach not only addresses CO2 emissions but also features easy catalyst recycling, making it commercially viable. If powered by renewable energy, this strategy could ultimately achieve carbon-negative outcomes, presenting promising opportunities for climate change mitigation and sustainable material production. The findings were published in Nature Catalysis.
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