Abstract
Electro- and Photoelectro-chemical CO2 conversion in eXtreme environments - EPiCX EPiCX aims to produce an optimized, fully operational photoelectrochemical (PEC) cell for the CO2 reduction reaction (CO2RR), either employing a single photoanode coupled to an electrocathode, or a combination of photoanode and photocathode in a tandem PEC configuration. 1. Integration and optimization of highly efficient electro- and photo-electrocatalysts in a fully operating photoelectrochemical (PEC) cell for the CO2 reduction reaction (CO2RR), with specific focus on the maximization of selectivity towards high added-value products. 2. Providing advanced understanding of charge dynamics and structural modifications of the catalysts through real-time monitoring of the fundamental and functional properties of the materials by operando techniques. 3. Investigation of the CO2RR PEC cell performance in extreme operating conditions, with specific focus on Antarctic, Arctic and sub-Arctic regions, aiming at the reduction of anthropic impact in such delicate environments.
Results achieved
: EPiCX developed and validated a new platform for electrochemical CO₂ conversion under cryogenic and high-pressure conditions. The project demonstrated that selective CO₂ reduction is feasible in liquid-CO₂-rich environments, while limiting competing hydrogen production. It also advanced Cu-based catalysts, photoelectrodes and operando characterization methods, providing new insight into catalyst–electrolyte and semiconductor–cocatalyst interfaces. Overall, the project established a solid proof of concept and identified electrolyte design, electrode stability and energy efficiency as the main priorities for future development.Dettagli del progetto
Responsabile scientifico: Raffaello Mazzaro
Strutture Unibo coinvolte:
Dipartimento di Fisica e Astronomia "Augusto Righi"
Coordinatore:
ALMA MATER STUDIORUM - Università di Bologna(Italy)
Contributo totale di progetto: Euro (EUR) 199.926,00
Contributo totale Unibo: Euro (EUR) 84.972,00
Durata del progetto in mesi: 24
Data di inizio
28/09/2023
Data di fine:
28/02/2026
