CO2 utilization to ethylene: Mechanistic insight into C-C coupling over core–shell nanostructured electrocatalysts

Project Description

The recent increase in global average temperature is mostly caused by CO2 emissions from burning fossil fuels such as coal, oil, and natural gas. It is widely accepted that to prevent the worst consequences of climate change, the world needs to urgently reduce the CO2 emissions. Our research employs catalyst materials capable of converting CO2 into valuable chemicals such as ethylene. In this proposal, we aim to understand the mechanism of CO2 electroreduction using copper-based materials via combination of techniques and modelling to improve the transformation. Ethylene is one of the most important chemicals for the chemical and pharmaceutical sectors. It is used as a feedstock in the manufacture of plastics, fibres and other organic chemicals that are ultimately consumed in the packaging, transportation and construction industries.