Renewable Electricity-Powered Plasma-Catalysis for CO2 Revalorization Process

The increasing levels of atmospheric carbon dioxide call for urgent solutions to reduce greenhouse gas emissions and support the shift toward a sustainable energy economy. REPCO2 (Renewable Electricity-Powered Plasma-Catalysis for CO2 Revalorization Process) is an interdisciplinary project that aims to develop new technology for CO2 valorization by creating innovative atmospheric pressure plasma configurations, exploring low-cost, environmentally friendly, and stable catalysts, and utilizing advanced in situ characterization under plasma conditions. Traditional thermal CO2 conversion methods typically require high temperatures and expensive catalysts, often containing precious metals. In contrast, non thermal plasma-catalysis offers a more energy-efficient and versatile alternative, operating under ambient conditions, such as room temperature and atmospheric pressure. In this way, inert molecules are activated by the plasma under mild conditions, and the resulting reactive species selectively recombine on the catalyst surface to form the desired products, thereby enhancing both chemical and energy yields. Rational design of catalysts tailored to the plasma environment, based on deep insights into the underlying mechanisms, is of particular interest as a novel approach. This requires fundamental studies to understand the potential synergy between plasma and catalyst. By optimizing the contributions of both plasma and catalysts, REPCO2 aims to increase reaction yields and promote the industrial application of atmospheric pressure plasma technology. The candidate will synthesize copper-based catalysts supported on zeolites. These plasma-catalyst systems will improve plasma-induced CO2 hydrogenation and dry reforming of methane (DRM) due to enhanced diffusion of reactants and plasma species, which may also prevent catalyst deactivation. Additionally, the cost-effectiveness of the synthesized systems will boost their potential for commercial applications.