This is an experimental research project centered on the electrochemical reduction of carbon dioxide (CO₂) into formate or other high-value chemical products (1,2). The work will explore the design, synthesis, and application of metal and alloy-based catalysts, with a particular emphasis on their integration into gas diffusion electrodes (GDEs). One of the features would be to investigate the effect of gas composition on the products. These catalyst coated electrodes will be tested and optimized within a novel electrochemical setup, primarily utilizing a two-electrode flow cell configuration, although a three-electrode system may also be employed for more detailed mechanistic studies.
The experimental tasks will involve the synthesis of nanoparticles and catalytic materials, followed by comprehensive physico-chemical and electrochemical characterization. Techniques may include, but are not limited to, transmission electron microscopy (TEM), X-ray diffraction (XRD), X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS), and cyclic voltammetry (CV). The products will be analyzed using HPLC/GC.
Although prior experience in electrochemistry is not a prerequisite, the student is expected to develop a strong foundation in advanced electroanalytical techniques and physical characterization methods over the course of the project. This experience will be integral to understanding catalyst performance and reaction mechanisms in CO₂ electroreduction systems. The project is experimental in nature.
- Al-Tamreh, S. A.; Ibrahim, M. H.; El-Naas, M. H.; Vaes, J.; Pant, D.; Benamor, A.; Amhamed, A. Electroreduction of Carbon Dioxide into Formate: A Comprehensive Review. ChemElectroChem 2021, 8 (17), 3207–3220. https://doi.org/10.1002/celc.202100438.
- Giri, S. D.; Mahajani, S. M.; Suresh, A. K.; Sarkar, A. Electrochemical Reduction of CO2 on Activated Copper: Influence of Surface Area. Materials Research Bulletin 2020, 123, 110702. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.materresbull.2019.110702.
