Synthesis of C2+OH alcohols from CO2 hydrogenation in polyfunctional catalysts based on Cu, Rh and Fe

Abstract

CO2 is largely produced from the burning of fuels and industrial activities. It has been accumulating in the atmosphere and for this reason, it intensifies the greenhouse effect. Industrially CO2 has limited applications. In order to maximize the industrial use of CO2 and minimize its negative environmental impacts, it is appropriate the development of alternative routes for the manufacture of carbon-based chemicals, which are in great demand in the market. In these alternative routes, CO2 could be used as feedstock, such as in the CO2 hydrogenation reactions for the production of alcohols with two or more carbons (C2+OH). Few studies investigate the technical and economic perspectives of the synthesis of C2+OH from CO2 and H2. In general, the catalysts employed in these studies have low conversion, low selectivity, low stability and/or high cost. The synthesis of C2+OH requires catalysts that promote the breakdown of C-O and H-H bonds and the formation of CO-H, C-H and C-C bonds. Therefore, in order to achieve better catalytic performances related to conversion, selectivity and stability, it is necessary to develop polyfunctional materials that are stable under the reaction conditions. In addition, the use of non-noble component materials is desirable to reduce process costs. In the present research project, it is proposed the development and the application of catalysts based on Cu, Rh and Fe to the CO2 hydrogenation, aiming the production of C2+OH alcohols. The impact of the chemical composition of the catalyst, the configuration of the system (physical mixing of materials vs. packed in series) and reaction conditions will be explored in the catalytic performance. (AU)