Electrochemical CO₂ Reduction to CO

CO₂ + 2H⁺ + 2e⁻ → CO + H₂O

Overview

Electrochemical reduction of CO₂ at a metal cathode can selectively produce CO (on Au/Ag), formate (on Sn/Pb/Bi), or hydrocarbons (on Cu). CO + H₂ (syngas) can then be converted to fuels via Fischer-Tropsch synthesis. This carbon capture and utilization (CCU) approach could close the carbon cycle using renewable electricity.

Participants

Role	Substance	Coefficient	State
Reactant	Carbon Dioxide CO₂	1	(g)
Product	Carbon Monoxide CO	1	(g)
Product	Water H₂O	1	(l)

Everyday Example

Startups like Twelve (formerly Opus 12) use CO₂ electrolysis to produce jet fuel and chemicals from captured carbon dioxide.

Industrial Importance

Electrochemical CO₂ reduction is a rapidly developing field with potential to produce carbon-neutral fuels and chemical feedstocks.

Properties

Type: Electrochemical
Reversible: Yes
Energy: Endothermic
ΔH: 257.0 kJ/mol
Catalyst: Gold or silver catalyst

Related Reactions

Alkaline Battery Discharge Anodizing of Aluminum Cathodic Protection (Zinc Sacrificial Anode) Chlor-Alkali Electrolysis Chrome Electroplating Copper Electroplating Daniell Cell (Zinc-Copper Galvanic Cell) Electrochemical Machining (ECM) Electrolysis of Molten NaCl (Downs Process) Electrolysis of Water

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the equation for Electrochemical CO₂ Reduction to CO?

The balanced equation is: CO₂ + 2H⁺ + 2e⁻ → CO + H₂O.

What type of reaction is Electrochemical CO₂ Reduction to CO?

Electrochemical CO₂ Reduction to CO is a electrochemical reaction. It is reversible under certain conditions.

Is Electrochemical CO₂ Reduction to CO exothermic or endothermic?

Electrochemical CO₂ Reduction to CO is endothermic (absorbs energy). The enthalpy change (ΔH) is 257.0 kJ/mol.

What conditions are needed for Electrochemical CO₂ Reduction to CO?

This reaction requires a catalyst (Gold or silver catalyst).