Pulse method for long-term stable and selective CO2 electrolysis to ethylene on copper-based gas diffusion electrodes

The electrochemical reduction of anthropogenic CO₂ into valuable chemicals is a promising method on the way to CO₂ neutrality. It offers a sustainable synthesis route for converting CO₂ from renewable surplus electricity into valuable precursors and fuels. Copper as the utilized electrocatalyst shows the unique ability to C-C bonds and thus enables the production of economically attractive hydrocarbons such as ethylene and ethanol.

Studies have shown challenges in terms of product selectivity and long-term stability for this method. One possible solution is to modulate the reduction potential. In the so-called pulsemethod, the electrolysis is operated alternately between the working potential and a lower regeneration potential. This approach is ought to result in an increase in ethylene production and longer operating times.

Regarding this pulse method the following aspects under investigation:

• Influence of the concentration gradients in the reactor
• Reduction of catalyst poisoning
• Periodic regeneration of the catalyst surface

By combining the expertise of the departments of Electrochemical Process Engineering and Functional Materials at the University of Bayreuth, the mechanisms of action of the pulse method will be transferred from standard laboratory H-cells to industrial gas diffusion electrodes and evaluated under realistic operating conditions.

Project Profile

Duration: 01.01.2024 - 31.12.2027

Funding: Deutsche Forschungsgemeinschaft (DFG)

Project Partners:

• Universität Bayreuth – LS Funktionsmaterialien, Prof. Ralf Moos

Contact: Carl Hartwig, Philipp Hawe, Prof. Dr.-Ing. Christina Roth