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).