An artificial photosynthesis reaction device and system with enhanced catalytic performance

Abstract

This invention provides an artificial photosynthesis reaction device and system for enhancing catalytic performance. The reaction device includes a pretreatment unit, a mixing and transport unit, a photocatalytic regeneration unit, and a separation unit. The pretreatment unit activates received carbon dioxide under supercritical conditions. The mixing and transport unit mixes various gaseous raw materials in a predetermined ratio and transports them to the photocatalytic regeneration unit. The photocatalytic regeneration unit preheats and activates the photocatalyst, enabling the chemical reaction to occur. The separation unit separates the reacted mixture and returns the unreacted mixture to the photocatalytic regeneration unit. According to this invention, industrial processing can reduce the chemical inertness of carbon dioxide, lower reaction energy consumption, and simultaneously improve catalytic reaction efficiency and overall chemical conversion rate.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This utility model relates to the field of chemical conversion and reaction engineering technology, specifically to an artificial photosynthesis reaction device and reaction system with enhanced catalytic performance. Background Technology

[0002] With increasing global emphasis on carbon emissions and energy structure transformation, converting carbon dioxide (CO2) resources into high-value-added chemicals (such as methanol) has become a research hotspot. Utilizing industrial CO2 emissions to produce methanol not only helps reduce greenhouse gas emissions but also serves as a carbon recycling method, providing a pathway to renewable resources. Furthermore, methanol is an important chemical feedstock that can be used to produce a variety of chemicals and fuels, offering broad industrial application prospects. The industrial process of converting carbon dioxide (CO2) into methanol can be simply represented as: CO2 + 3H2 → CH3OH + H2O. This reaction requires suitable temperature, pressure, and an effective catalyst to improve conversion efficiency and selectivity.

[0003] Existing CO2 hydrogenation to methanol processes mainly rely on high-temperature, high-pressure catalytic reactions. However, due to the stable molecular structure and low reactivity of CO2, catalytic efficiency and selectivity are often limited. On the other hand, photocatalysis has attracted widespread attention due to its mild reaction conditions and environmental friendliness. However, the activation level of CO2 in traditional photocatalytic reactions is insufficient, which restricts the overall conversion rate.

[0004] Therefore, a technical solution is needed that can reduce the chemical inertness of carbon dioxide through industrial processing, thereby reducing reaction energy consumption while improving catalytic reaction efficiency and overall chemical reaction conversion rate. Utility Model Content

[0005] The present invention aims to provide an artificial photosynthesis reaction device and reaction system for enhancing catalytic performance, which can reduce the chemical inertness of carbon dioxide through industrial processing, reduce reaction energy consumption, and improve catalytic reaction efficiency and overall chemical reaction conversion rate.

[0006] According to one aspect of this utility model, an artificial photosynthesis reaction device with enhanced catalytic performance is provided for preparing methanol from carbon dioxide and hydrogen as raw materials. The artificial photosynthesis reaction device includes: a pretreatment unit, a mixing and transport unit, a photocatalytic regeneration unit, and a separation unit, wherein...

[0007] The pretreatment unit is used to activate the received carbon dioxide under supercritical conditions and send the activated carbon dioxide into the mixing and transport unit.

[0008] The mixing and transmission unit receives hydrogen and carbon dioxide activated by the pretreatment unit and mixes them in a predetermined ratio to obtain a mixed gas, which is then transmitted to the photocatalytic regeneration unit.

[0009] The photocatalytic regeneration unit receives the mixed gas from the mixing and transport unit. The photocatalytic regeneration unit includes a light source for providing illumination for the chemical reaction. The photocatalytic regeneration unit is used for preheating and activating the photocatalyst, and for the chemical reaction of the mixed gas to occur under the action of light and the photocatalyst, to obtain a mixture of methanol and unreacted mixed gas, and then sending the mixture into the separation unit.

[0010] The separation unit separates the methanol and the unreacted mixed gas from the mixture and sends the unreacted mixed gas back to the photocatalytic regeneration unit.

[0011] According to some embodiments, the pretreatment unit includes a first raw material conveying channel, a first throttling valve, and a reaction vessel, wherein,

[0012] The first raw material conveying channel is used to input the carbon dioxide into the reactor and to send the activated carbon dioxide into the mixing and conveying unit;

[0013] The first throttle valve is installed on the first raw material conveying channel to control the amount of carbon dioxide conveyed.

[0014] The reactor is used to activate the received carbon dioxide under supercritical conditions, and the activated carbon dioxide is sent into the mixing and conveying unit through the first raw material conveying channel.

[0015] According to some embodiments, a constant temperature control system is installed inside the reactor to ensure that the internal temperature of the reactor is uniform and stable.

[0016] According to some embodiments, the reactor is made of high-temperature and high-pressure resistant material, and the operating conditions of the reactor are set at 35°C and 80-100 bar to ensure that the carbon dioxide is in a supercritical state.

[0017] According to some embodiments, the mixing and conveying unit includes: a second raw material conveying channel, a second throttle valve, a third raw material conveying channel, a third throttle valve, and a gas mixer, wherein,

[0018] The second raw material conveying channel is used to input the hydrogen gas into the gas mixer;

[0019] The second throttle valve is installed on the second raw material conveying channel to control the amount of hydrogen conveyed.

[0020] The gas mixer is used to mix the activated carbon dioxide with the hydrogen to obtain the mixed gas;

[0021] The third raw material conveying channel is used to send the mixed gas into the mixing and conveying unit;

[0022] The third throttle valve is installed on the third raw material conveying channel and is used to control the conveying amount of the mixed gas.

[0023] According to some embodiments, the photocatalytic regeneration unit further includes: a photocatalytic fluidized bed reactor and a regenerator, wherein,

[0024] The regenerator includes a feed inlet and a riser. The photocatalyst is added to the regenerator through the feed inlet. After the photocatalyst is preheated and regenerated in the regenerator, the photocatalyst is fed into the fluidized bed reactor through the riser.

[0025] The photocatalytic fluidized bed reactor receives catalyst from the regenerator and mixed gas from the mixing and transport unit. In the reactor, the mixed gas undergoes a fluidization reaction under the action of the photocatalyst to obtain a mixture of methanol and unreacted mixed gas, which is then fed into the separation unit.

[0026] The photocatalytic fluidized bed reactor includes a first feedback channel located at the bottom of the reactor, which recovers the deactivated photocatalyst after the reaction and returns it to the regenerator.

[0027] According to some embodiments, the separation unit includes: a separator and a second feedback channel.

[0028] The separator is used to separate the methanol and the unreacted gas mixture from the mixture and to deliver the methanol to the outside.

[0029] The second feedback channel connects the separator and the photocatalytic fluidized bed reactor, and sends the unreacted mixed gas back to the photocatalytic fluidized bed reactor.

[0030] According to some embodiments, a throttling valve is provided on the second feedback channel to prevent the backflow of the unreacted gas mixture.

[0031] According to some embodiments, the separator includes a condenser, a gas separator, or an adsorption device for separating the methanol from the unreacted gas mixture.

[0032] According to another aspect of the present invention, an artificial photosynthesis reaction system with enhanced catalytic performance is provided, the system comprising: a control system and an artificial photosynthesis reaction apparatus as described in any of the preceding claims.

[0033] According to embodiments of this invention, the design utilizes CO2 as a raw material to produce methanol. The produced methanol can serve as a clean energy source and chemical raw material, contributing to reducing atmospheric CO2 concentration and achieving carbon neutrality. By adding a pretreatment unit to activate carbon dioxide under supercritical conditions, its chemical inertness is reduced, allowing the reaction to achieve methanol production via photocatalysis under milder conditions. This significantly increases the subsequent photocatalytic reaction rate and reduces the energy consumption of traditional high-temperature, high-pressure reactions. By adding the mixing and transport unit, the activated carbon dioxide and hydrogen are fully and uniformly mixed, improving raw material utilization and enhancing the stability and efficiency of the entire process. By adding the photocatalytic regeneration unit, effective regeneration and recycling of the photocatalyst are achieved, ensuring the efficient operation of the entire device, improving photocatalyst utilization, and reducing preparation costs. By adding the separation unit, effective separation and recycling of unreacted mixed gas are achieved, reducing raw material waste and ensuring the efficient operation of the entire artificial photosynthesis reaction device.

[0034] It should be understood that the above general description and the following detailed description are merely exemplary and do not limit the present invention. Attached Figure Description

[0035] To more clearly illustrate the technical solutions in the embodiments of this utility model, the accompanying drawings used in the description of the embodiments will be briefly introduced below.

[0036] Figure 1 A schematic diagram of an artificial photosynthesis reaction apparatus with enhanced catalytic performance is shown according to an example embodiment.

[0037] Figure 2 A schematic diagram of an artificial photosynthesis reaction apparatus with enhanced catalytic performance is shown according to another example embodiment.

[0038] Figure 3 A schematic diagram of a pretreatment unit and a mixing and transport unit of an artificial photosynthesis reaction apparatus for enhancing catalytic performance, according to another example embodiment, is shown.

[0039] Figure 4 A schematic diagram of a photocatalytic regeneration unit of an artificial photosynthesis reaction apparatus for enhancing catalytic performance is shown according to another example embodiment.

[0040] Figure 5A schematic diagram of the separation unit of an artificial photosynthesis reaction apparatus for enhancing catalytic performance is shown according to another example embodiment. Detailed Implementation

[0041] Exemplary embodiments will now be described more fully with reference to the accompanying drawings. However, these exemplary embodiments can be implemented in many forms and should not be construed as limited to the embodiments set forth herein; rather, they are provided so that this invention will be thorough and complete, and will fully convey the concept of the exemplary embodiments to those skilled in the art. The same reference numerals in the drawings denote the same or similar parts, and therefore repeated descriptions of them will be omitted.

[0042] Furthermore, the described features, structures, or characteristics can be combined in any suitable manner in one or more embodiments. Numerous specific details are provided in the following description to give a full understanding of embodiments of the present invention. However, those skilled in the art will recognize that the technical solutions of the present invention can be practiced without one or more of the specific details, or other methods, components, apparatuses, steps, etc., may be employed. In other instances, well-known methods, apparatuses, implementations, or operations are not shown or described in detail to avoid obscuring various aspects of the present invention.

[0043] The block diagrams shown in the accompanying drawings are merely functional entities and do not necessarily correspond to physically independent entities. That is, these functional entities can be implemented in software, in one or more hardware modules or integrated circuits, or in different network and / or processor devices and / or microcontroller devices.

[0044] The flowcharts shown in the accompanying drawings are merely illustrative and do not necessarily include all content and operations / steps, nor do they necessarily have to be performed in the described order. For example, some operations / steps can be broken down, while others can be combined or partially combined; therefore, the actual execution order may change depending on the specific circumstances.

[0045] It should be understood that although the terms first, second, third, etc., may be used herein to describe various components, these components should not be limited by these terms. These terms are used to distinguish one component from another. Therefore, the first component discussed below may be referred to as the second component without departing from the teachings of this utility model. As used herein, the term "and / or" includes all combinations of any one and more of the associated listed items.

[0046] The user information (including but not limited to user device information, user personal information, etc.) and data (including but not limited to data used for analysis, data stored, data displayed, etc.) involved in this utility model are all information and data authorized by the user or fully authorized by all parties. Furthermore, the collection, use and processing of related data must comply with the relevant laws, regulations and standards of the relevant countries and regions, and corresponding operation entry points are provided for users to choose to authorize or refuse.

[0047] Those skilled in the art will understand that the accompanying drawings are merely schematic diagrams of exemplary embodiments, and the modules or processes in the drawings are not necessarily essential for implementing this utility model, and therefore cannot be used to limit the scope of protection of this utility model.

[0048] With increasing global emphasis on carbon emissions and energy structure transformation, the resource-based conversion of carbon dioxide (CO2) into high-value-added chemicals (such as methanol) has become a research hotspot. Utilizing industrially emitted CO2 to produce methanol not only helps reduce greenhouse gas emissions but also serves as a carbon recycling method, providing a pathway to renewable resources. Furthermore, methanol is an important chemical feedstock that can be used to produce a variety of chemicals and fuels, offering broad industrial application prospects. The industrial process of converting carbon dioxide (CO2) into methanol can be simply represented as: CO2 + 3H2 → CH3OH + H2O. This reaction requires suitable temperature, pressure, and an effective catalyst to improve conversion efficiency and selectivity.

[0049] Existing CO2 hydrogenation to methanol processes mainly rely on high-temperature, high-pressure catalytic reactions. However, due to the stable molecular structure and low reactivity of CO2, catalytic efficiency and selectivity are often limited. On the other hand, photocatalysis has attracted widespread attention due to its mild reaction conditions and environmental friendliness. However, the activation level of CO2 in traditional photocatalytic reactions is insufficient, which restricts the overall conversion rate.

[0050] In recent years, supercritical fluid technology has shown great potential in the field of CO2 activation due to its excellent solubility and mass transfer characteristics. Pretreatment of CO2 in a supercritical state can cause partial dissociation of its molecular structure or generate intermediate active substances, thereby providing more favorable reaction conditions for subsequent photocatalytic reactions and improving the overall conversion efficiency.

[0051] Therefore, this invention proposes an artificial photosynthesis reaction device and system with enhanced catalytic performance. Through industrial processing, it can reduce the chemical inertness of carbon dioxide, lower reaction energy consumption, and simultaneously improve catalytic reaction efficiency and overall chemical conversion rate. According to the embodiments, the design of this invention utilizes CO2 as a raw material to produce methanol. The produced methanol can be used as a clean energy source and chemical raw material, helping to reduce atmospheric CO2 concentration and achieve carbon neutrality. By adding a pretreatment unit to activate carbon dioxide under supercritical conditions, its chemical inertness can be reduced, enabling the production of methanol via photocatalysis under milder conditions. This significantly increases the rate of subsequent photocatalytic reactions and reduces the energy consumption of traditional high-temperature, high-pressure reactions. The addition of the mixing and transport unit ensures thorough and uniform mixing of the activated carbon dioxide and hydrogen, improving raw material utilization and enhancing the stability and efficiency of the entire process. The addition of the photocatalytic regeneration unit enables effective regeneration and recycling of the photocatalyst, ensuring efficient operation of the entire device, improving photocatalyst utilization, and reducing preparation costs. Finally, the addition of the separation unit enables effective separation and recycling of unreacted mixed gases, reducing raw material waste and ensuring efficient operation of the entire artificial photosynthesis reactor.

[0052] The following description, in conjunction with the accompanying drawings, illustrates exemplary embodiments of the present invention.

[0053] Figure 1 A schematic diagram of an artificial photosynthesis reaction apparatus with enhanced catalytic performance is shown according to an example embodiment.

[0054] See Figure 1 The figure shows an artificial photosynthesis reaction device with enhanced catalytic performance, used to produce methanol from carbon dioxide and hydrogen. The artificial photosynthesis reaction device includes: a pretreatment unit 01, a mixing and transport unit 02, a photocatalytic regeneration unit 03, and a separation unit 04.

[0055] According to some embodiments, the pretreatment unit is used to activate the received carbon dioxide in a supercritical state and then send the activated carbon dioxide to the mixing and transport unit 02. The pretreatment unit 01 is responsible for receiving and processing the carbon dioxide to activate it in a supercritical state. A supercritical state means that the carbon dioxide is heated and pressurized to specific conditions (temperature and pressure exceeding its critical point) to enhance the efficiency of subsequent chemical reactions. The processed carbon dioxide is then sent to the mixing and transport unit 02.

[0056] According to some embodiments, the mixing and transport unit 02 receives hydrogen and carbon dioxide activated by the pretreatment unit 01, mixes them in a predetermined ratio to obtain a mixed gas, and then transports the mixed gas to the photocatalytic regeneration unit 03. In the mixing and transport unit 02, activated carbon dioxide and hydrogen are mixed in a predetermined ratio to form a mixed gas. This precise ratio is crucial to ensuring the effectiveness of the chemical reaction. After mixing, the mixed gas is transported to the photocatalytic regeneration unit 03.

[0057] According to some embodiments, the photocatalytic regeneration unit 03 receives the mixed gas from the mixing and transport unit 02. The photocatalytic regeneration unit 03 includes a light source 0303 for providing illumination for the chemical reaction. The photocatalytic regeneration unit 03 is used for preheating and activating the photocatalyst, and for the chemical reaction of the mixed gas under illumination and the photocatalyst to obtain a mixture of methanol and unreacted gas, which is then sent to the separation unit 04. The photocatalytic regeneration unit 03 includes a light source 0303 to provide the necessary illumination conditions for the chemical reaction. The photocatalyst 03 is also used for preheating and activating the photocatalyst. The photocatalyst may be modified titanium dioxide, cadmium sulfide, bismuth vanadate, etc. The photocatalyst is activated under illumination, promoting the chemical reaction between carbon dioxide and hydrogen to generate methanol and an unreacted gas mixture. The resulting mixture is then sent to the separation unit 04.

[0058] According to some embodiments, the separation unit 04 separates the methanol and the unreacted mixed gas from the mixture, and returns the unreacted mixed gas to the photocatalytic regeneration unit 03. The function of the separation unit 04 is to separate the methanol and unreacted mixed gas from the mixture obtained from the photocatalytic regeneration unit 03. The pure methanol can be collected as the final product, while the unreacted mixed gas is recycled back to the photocatalytic regeneration unit 03 to further participate in the reaction, thereby improving resource utilization.

[0059] According to some embodiments, the design scheme of this utility model simulates the photosynthetic process in nature through artificial photosynthesis. Under artificial conditions, such as through catalysts, light, high temperature and high pressure, carbon dioxide (CO2) reacts with hydrogen (H2) to produce hydrocarbons. This artificial photosynthetic reaction method can effectively promote the green conversion of carbon dioxide (CO2), efficiently collect energy substances, avoid energy loss in natural systems, and simultaneously alleviate environmental pollution and address the problem of fossil fuel shortages.

[0060] Figure 2 A schematic diagram of an artificial photosynthesis reaction apparatus with enhanced catalytic performance is shown according to another example embodiment.

[0061] Figure 3 A schematic diagram of a pretreatment unit and a mixing and transport unit of an artificial photosynthesis reaction apparatus for enhancing catalytic performance, according to another example embodiment, is shown.

[0062] See Figure 2 as well as Figure 3 The pretreatment unit 01 includes a first raw material conveying channel 0101, a first throttle valve 0102, and a reaction vessel 0103.

[0063] According to some embodiments, the first raw material conveying channel 0101 is used to input the carbon dioxide into the reactor 0103 and to send the activated carbon dioxide into the mixing and conveying unit 02. The first raw material conveying channel 0101 is responsible for two aspects: on the one hand, it inputs carbon dioxide into the reactor 0103 for activation treatment; on the other hand, after the carbon dioxide is activated, it acts as a conveying path to send the activated carbon dioxide into the mixing and conveying unit 02.

[0064] According to some embodiments, the first throttle valve 0102 is disposed on the first raw material conveying channel 0101 to control the amount of carbon dioxide conveyed. The first throttle valve 0102, located on the first raw material conveying channel 0101, is used to precisely control the amount of carbon dioxide entering the reactor 0103, ensuring that subsequent chemical reactions can proceed in the optimal proportion.

[0065] According to some embodiments, the reactor 0103 is used to activate the received carbon dioxide under supercritical conditions, and the activated carbon dioxide is then fed into the mixing and conveying unit 02 through the first raw material conveying channel 0101. The reactor 0103, as the core component of the pretreatment unit 01, primarily activates the carbon dioxide under supercritical conditions. Utilizing the supercritical state (where both temperature and pressure reach or exceed the CO2 critical point, such as 31.1℃ and 73.8 bar for processing the feed CO2), under supercritical conditions, the CO2 molecule undergoes partial dissociation or forms excited-state intermediate species, increasing its reactivity with hydrogen.

[0066] According to some embodiments, the reactor 0103, made of high-temperature and high-pressure resistant material, is set to operating conditions of 35°C and 80-100 bar to ensure that CO2 is in a supercritical state. The reactor 0103, made of high-temperature and high-pressure resistant material, can operate under the set conditions (35°C, 80-100 bar) to ensure that carbon dioxide is in a supercritical state, thereby improving the efficiency of subsequent chemical reactions.

[0067] According to some embodiments, the reactor is equipped with a constant temperature control system, including a stirring system and a temperature control module, to ensure that the internal temperature of the reactor 0103 is uniform and stable. To ensure the effectiveness of this process, the reactor 0103 is equipped with a constant temperature control system to ensure uniform and stable internal temperature.

[0068] In summary, through the design described above, the pretreatment unit 01 can effectively prepare carbon dioxide, enabling it to better react with hydrogen to produce methanol in subsequent steps. This system design not only improves raw material utilization but also lays the foundation for the smooth operation of the entire process. Furthermore, precise control of operating conditions can optimize reaction conditions, thereby improving the quality and yield of the final product.

[0069] See Figure 2 as well as Figure 3 The mixing and transmission unit 02 includes: a second raw material conveying channel 0202, a second throttle valve 0201, a third raw material conveying channel 0204, a third throttle valve 0203, and a gas mixer 0205. The second raw material conveying channel 0202 is used to input hydrogen into the gas mixer 0205; the second throttle valve 0201 is disposed on the second raw material conveying channel 0202 and is used to control the amount of hydrogen conveyed; the gas mixer 0205 is used to mix the activated carbon dioxide with the hydrogen to obtain the mixed gas; the third raw material conveying channel 0204 is used to send the mixed gas into the mixing and transmission unit 02; and the third throttle valve 0203 is disposed on the third raw material conveying channel 0204 and is used to control the amount of mixed gas conveyed.

[0070] According to some embodiments, the artificial photosynthesis reactor precisely regulates the flow rates of the input hydrogen and activated carbon dioxide through the second throttle valve 0201 and the third throttle valve 0203, ensuring that the two are mixed in a predetermined optimal ratio, typically set between 1:3 and 1:5. During the delivery of the mixed gas to the photocatalytic reactor, the second raw material delivery channel 0202, the second throttle valve 0201, the third raw material delivery channel 0204, and the third throttle valve 0203 ensure that the gas enters the reactor at a stable flow rate and with a uniform pressure distribution. This allows the gas to be dispersed as evenly as possible within the reactor, improving raw material utilization and enhancing the stability and efficiency of the entire process.

[0071] According to some embodiments, the first, second, and third throttle valves can also prevent the backflow of the activated carbon dioxide, hydrogen, and the mixed gas, further ensuring that subsequent chemical reactions can proceed in the optimal proportion.

[0072] Figure 4A schematic diagram of a photocatalytic regeneration unit of an artificial photosynthesis reaction apparatus for enhancing catalytic performance is shown according to another example embodiment.

[0073] See Figure 4 The figure shows a photocatalytic regeneration unit of an artificial photosynthesis reaction device for enhancing catalytic performance according to another example embodiment. The photocatalytic regeneration unit 03 further includes a photocatalytic fluidized bed reactor 0301 and a regenerator 0302.

[0074] According to some embodiments, the regenerator 0302 includes an inlet 03021 and a riser 03022. The photocatalyst is added to the regenerator 0302 through the inlet 03021. After preheating and regenerating the photocatalyst in the regenerator 0302, the photocatalyst is fed into the fluidized bed reactor through the riser 03022. The inlet 03021 is the entrance for adding new or regenerated photocatalyst to the regenerator 0302. Through this entrance, the catalyst can be replenished or replaced periodically to ensure that there is always sufficient active catalyst participating in the reaction in the reactor. The riser 03022 is used to transport the preheated and regenerated photocatalyst from the regenerator 0302 to the photocatalytic fluidized bed reactor 0301, ensuring that the catalyst can be smoothly transported to the photocatalytic fluidized bed reactor 0301 and continuously participate in the chemical reaction.

[0075] According to some embodiments, a new photocatalyst is added to the regenerator 0302 through the feed inlet 03021. Inside the regenerator 0302, the photocatalyst is preheated to remove any impurities and enhance its activity, enabling it to participate more effectively in subsequent chemical reactions. After preheating, the activated photocatalyst is sent to the photocatalytic fluidized bed reactor 0301 through the riser 03022 to participate in the chemical reaction.

[0076] According to some embodiments, inside the regenerator 0302, the deactivated photocatalyst requiring regeneration undergoes a preheating and regeneration process. The regeneration process aims to restore the catalyst's activity, while the preheating step helps remove any impurities or adsorbed byproducts, simultaneously enhancing the photocatalyst's activity so it can effectively participate in subsequent chemical reactions. After preheating and regeneration, the photocatalyst is similarly returned to the photocatalytic fluidized bed reactor 0301 via the riser 03022, re-participating in the reaction of carbon dioxide and hydrogen to methanol.

[0077] According to some embodiments, the design of this utility model, by applying the regenerator 0302, realizes the preheating, regeneration and reuse of the photocatalyst, providing a stable and efficient catalyst source for the entire system and supporting a continuous chemical conversion process.

[0078] According to some embodiments, the preheating and regeneration process can effectively extend the lifespan of the photocatalyst within the device, reducing the need for frequent catalyst replacement and thus lowering production costs. This preheating and regeneration process ensures that the photocatalyst maintains a high level of activity, improving the selectivity and yield of chemical reactions, promoting the effective utilization of the photocatalyst, and reducing production costs.

[0079] According to some embodiments, the photocatalytic fluidized bed reactor 0301 receives a catalyst from the regenerator 0302 and a mixed gas from the mixing and transport unit 02. In the photocatalytic fluidized bed reactor 0301, the mixed gas undergoes a fluidization reaction under the action of the photocatalyst to obtain a mixture of methanol and the unreacted mixed gas, and the mixture is sent to the separation unit 04.

[0080] According to some embodiments, the photocatalytic fluidized bed reactor 0301 receives the active photocatalyst after preheating and regeneration treatment from the regenerator 0302, and simultaneously receives the mixed gas from the mixing and transport unit 02. Inside the photocatalytic fluidized bed reactor 0301, the mixed gas and the photocatalyst are in full contact and undergo a chemical reaction under the action of light of a specific wavelength. Under the action of the photocatalyst (such as modified titanium dioxide TiO2, cadmium sulfide CdS, bismuth vanadate BiVO4, etc.), a chemical reaction is carried out to convert carbon dioxide and hydrogen into methanol, generating a mixture of methanol and unreacted mixed gas. The generated mixture (methanol and unreacted mixed gas) is sent to the separation unit 04 for further separation.

[0081] According to some embodiments, the photocatalytic fluidized bed reactor 0301 includes a first feedback channel 03011 disposed at the bottom of the reactor, which recovers the photocatalyst deactivated after the reaction and returns it to the regenerator 0302. The first feedback channel 03011, located at the bottom of the reactor, recovers the deactivated photocatalyst after the reaction and returns it to the regenerator 0302 for regeneration, ensuring that the photocatalyst can continuously maintain high efficiency and thus support the continuous operation of the system.

[0082] According to some embodiments, the photocatalytic fluidized bed reactor 0301 receives an active photocatalyst from a regenerator 0302 and a mixed gas from a mixing and transport unit 02. Inside the reactor, the mixed gas reacts chemically with the photocatalyst under illumination to produce a mixture of methanol and unreacted gas. This mixture is then sent to the separation unit 04 for separation, allowing the unreacted gas to be recycled. Through the first feedback channel 03011, the deactivated photocatalyst is recovered and returned to the regenerator 0302 for regeneration, and then re-enters the reactor for recycling via the riser 03022. This improves the efficiency of carbon dioxide conversion to methanol while maintaining low operating costs.

[0083] According to some embodiments, the photocatalyst undergoes pretreatment and surface modification, resulting in a high specific surface area and good photoresponse. The light source 0303 can be designed using LEDs or high-efficiency solar collectors, supplemented by reflectors and light-transmitting windows, to improve light energy utilization and enhance the sustainability and economy of the entire process.

[0084] Figure 5 A schematic diagram of the separation unit of an artificial photosynthesis reaction apparatus for enhancing catalytic performance is shown according to another example embodiment.

[0085] See Figure 5 The figure shows a separation unit of an artificial photosynthesis reaction apparatus for enhancing catalytic performance according to another example embodiment. The separation unit 04 includes a separator 0401 and a second feedback channel 0402. The separator 0401 is used to separate the methanol and the unreacted mixed gas in the mixture and to deliver the methanol to the outside. The second feedback channel 0402 connects the separator 0401 and the photocatalytic fluidized bed reactor 0301 and sends the unreacted mixed gas back to the photocatalytic fluidized bed reactor 0301.

[0086] According to some embodiments, the separator 0401 receives and separates the mixture from the photocatalytic fluidized bed reactor 0301, typically through physical or chemical methods such as condensation, adsorption, or membrane separation. The separated pure methanol is then transported as the final product for subsequent industrial applications or other purposes. The second feedback channel 0402 connects the separator 0401 and the photocatalytic fluidized bed reactor 0301, returning unreacted mixed gases (mainly carbon dioxide and hydrogen) to the photocatalytic fluidized bed reactor 0301 so that these gases can participate in the reaction again, improving raw material utilization and reducing waste.

[0087] According to some embodiments, a fourth throttling valve 0403 is provided on the second feedback channel 0402 to prevent the backflow of the unreacted gas mixture. The remaining unreacted gas mixture after separation returns to the photocatalytic fluidized bed reactor 0301 through the second feedback channel 0402 to participate in the chemical reaction process again. To prevent the unreacted gas from flowing backwards, a fourth throttling valve 0403 is provided on the second feedback channel 0402 to ensure unidirectional gas flow, maintain system stability and efficient operation, thereby improving the overall process efficiency and resource utilization.

[0088] According to some embodiments, the separator 0401 includes a condenser, a gas separator, or an adsorption device for separating the methanol from the unreacted gas mixture. Inside the separator 0401, methanol is separated from the gas mixture using appropriate separation techniques, such as a condenser, a gas separator, or an adsorption device. The condenser condenses the gaseous methanol into a liquid state by lowering the temperature. Since methanol has a high boiling point (approximately 64.7°C), it can be effectively removed by condensing it from the gas mixture through cooling, thereby reducing the load on subsequent processing steps. The gas separator is used to further separate trace amounts of methanol and other impurity gases that were not completely captured by the condenser. Depending on the actual production scenario, membrane separation technology, pressure swing adsorption (PSA), or other physical or chemical separation methods can be selected to provide higher separation accuracy, ensuring that the final output methanol purity meets requirements and recovering as much unreacted carbon dioxide and hydrogen as possible so that they can re-enter the photocatalytic fluidized bed reactor 0301 for reaction.

[0089] According to some embodiments, the mixed gas (containing methanol and unreacted carbon dioxide and hydrogen) from the photocatalytic fluidized bed reactor 0301 is fed into a condenser. In the condenser, most of the methanol is condensed into a liquid form by cooling and then collected. The remaining gas continues into a gas separator, specifically, membrane separation, PSA, or other technologies can be used to further separate residual methanol and other impurity gases, ensuring gas purity. If higher purity is required, the gas can undergo final purification treatment via an adsorption device to remove any remaining trace amounts of methanol or other impurities. The separated pure methanol is collected and transported as a product, while the unreacted mixed gas is returned to the photocatalytic fluidized bed reactor 0301 through the second feedback channel 0402 to participate in the reaction process again, thereby improving raw material utilization.

[0090] According to some embodiments, through a multi-level separation design, combining condensers, gas separators, and adsorption devices, not only is the separation efficiency and purity of methanol improved, but also the effective recovery and reuse of unreacted gases are achieved, enhancing the resource utilization efficiency and economy of the entire system. Users can also flexibly select the condenser based on actual scenario requirements, such as flash tanks, packed distillation columns, tray distillation columns, etc., which can reduce energy consumption and operating costs while achieving high-efficiency product separation.

[0091] To more intuitively demonstrate the advantages of this patent, experimental data is provided for verification:

[0092] serial number <![CDATA[CO2 activation]]> light source Methanol selectivity <![CDATA[CO2 conversion rate]]> Methanol yield 1 yes yes 80.9％ 32.5％ 0.2629 2 yes no 68.7％ 23％ 0.1580 3 no yes 56.4％ 5.4％ 0.3045 4 no no 54％ 2％ 0.0108

[0093] Note: The experimental results here are consistent with controlled variables, and other conditions remain the same.

[0094] According to some embodiments, the design of this utility model, by adding a pretreatment unit 01, activates carbon dioxide under supercritical conditions, reducing its chemical inertness. This allows the reaction to produce methanol via photocatalysis under milder conditions, significantly increasing the rate of subsequent photocatalytic reactions and reducing the energy consumption of traditional high-temperature, high-pressure reactions. Using CO2 as a raw material for methanol production, the produced methanol can serve as a clean energy source and chemical feedstock, contributing to reducing atmospheric CO2 concentration and achieving carbon neutrality.

[0095] According to some embodiments, the design of this utility model, by adding the mixing and transmission unit, achieves a thorough and uniform mixing of the activated carbon dioxide and the hydrogen, and ensures that the gas enters the reactor at a stable flow rate and uniform pressure distribution, so that the mixed gas can be dispersed as evenly as possible in the reactor, thereby improving the utilization rate of raw materials and enhancing the stability and efficiency of the entire process.

[0096] According to some embodiments, the design scheme of this utility model, by adding the photocatalytic regeneration unit, realizes the effective regeneration and recycling of the photocatalyst, ensures the efficient operation of the entire device, improves the utilization rate of the photocatalyst, and reduces the preparation cost.

[0097] According to some embodiments, the design of this utility model, by adding the separation unit, achieves effective separation and recycling of unreacted mixed gas, improves resource utilization, reduces waste of raw materials, and ensures the efficient operation of the entire artificial photosynthesis reaction device.

[0098] It should be noted that, for the sake of simplicity, the foregoing method embodiments are all described as a series of actions. However, those skilled in the art should understand that the present invention is not limited to the described order of actions, because according to the present invention, some steps can be performed in other orders or simultaneously. Furthermore, those skilled in the art should also understand that the embodiments described in the specification are preferred embodiments, and the actions and modules involved are not necessarily essential to the present invention.

[0099] In the above embodiments, the descriptions of each embodiment have different focuses. For parts not described in detail in a certain embodiment, please refer to the relevant descriptions in other embodiments.

[0100] In the several embodiments provided by this utility model, it should be understood that the disclosed apparatus can be implemented in other ways. For example, the apparatus embodiments described above are merely illustrative; for instance, the division of units is only a logical functional division, and in actual implementation, there may be other division methods. For example, multiple units or components may be combined or integrated into another system, or some features may be ignored or not executed. Furthermore, the coupling or direct coupling or communication connection shown or discussed may be through some service interface; the indirect coupling or communication connection between devices or units may be electrical or other forms.

[0101] The units described as separate components may or may not be physically separate. The components shown as units may or may not be physical units; that is, they may be located in one place or distributed across multiple network units. Some or all of the units can be selected to achieve the purpose of this embodiment according to actual needs.

[0102] In addition, in the various embodiments of this utility model, each functional unit can be integrated into one processing unit, or each unit can exist physically separately, or two or more units can be integrated into one unit.

[0103] In the above embodiments, the descriptions of each embodiment have different focuses. For parts not described in detail in a certain embodiment, please refer to the relevant descriptions in other embodiments.

[0104] Exemplary embodiments of the present invention have been specifically shown and described above. It should be understood that the present invention is not limited to the detailed structures, arrangements, or implementation methods described herein; rather, the present invention is intended to cover various modifications and equivalent arrangements contained within the spirit and scope of the appended provisions.

Claims

1. An artificial photosynthesis reaction device that enhances catalytic performance, characterized by, The artificial photosynthesis reaction device, used to produce methanol from carbon dioxide and hydrogen, comprises: a pretreatment unit, a mixing and transport unit, a photocatalytic regeneration unit, and a separation unit. The pretreatment unit is used to activate the received carbon dioxide under supercritical conditions and send the activated carbon dioxide into the mixing and transport unit. The mixing and transmission unit receives hydrogen and carbon dioxide activated by the pretreatment unit and mixes them in a predetermined ratio to obtain a mixed gas, which is then transmitted to the photocatalytic regeneration unit. The photocatalytic regeneration unit receives the mixed gas from the mixing and transport unit. The photocatalytic regeneration unit includes a light source for providing illumination for the chemical reaction. The photocatalytic regeneration unit is used for preheating and activating the photocatalyst and for the chemical reaction of the mixed gas to occur under the action of light and the photocatalyst, to obtain a mixture of methanol and unreacted mixed gas, and then sends the mixture into the separation unit. The separation unit separates the methanol and the unreacted mixed gas from the mixture and sends the unreacted mixed gas back to the photocatalytic regeneration unit.

2. The artificial photosynthesis reaction device according to claim 1, wherein The pretreatment unit includes a first raw material conveying channel, a first throttle valve, and a reaction vessel, wherein... The first raw material conveying channel is used to input the carbon dioxide into the reactor and to send the activated carbon dioxide into the mixing and conveying unit; The first throttle valve is installed on the first raw material conveying channel to control the amount of carbon dioxide conveyed. The reactor is used to activate the received carbon dioxide under supercritical conditions, and the activated carbon dioxide is sent into the mixing and conveying unit through the first raw material conveying channel.

3. The artificial photosynthesis reaction device according to claim 2, wherein The reactor is equipped with a constant temperature control system to ensure that the internal temperature of the reactor is uniform and stable.

4. The artificial photosynthesis reaction apparatus according to claim 2, wherein The reactor is made of high-temperature and high-pressure resistant material, and the operating conditions of the reactor are set at 35℃ and 80-100 bar to ensure that the carbon dioxide is in a supercritical state.

5. The artificial photosynthesis reaction apparatus according to claim 1, wherein The mixing and conveying unit includes: a second raw material conveying channel, a second throttle valve, a third raw material conveying channel, a third throttle valve, and a gas mixer, wherein... The second raw material conveying channel is used to input the hydrogen gas into the gas mixer; The second throttle valve is installed on the second raw material conveying channel to control the amount of hydrogen conveyed. The gas mixer is used to mix the activated carbon dioxide with the hydrogen to obtain the mixed gas; The third raw material conveying channel is used to send the mixed gas into the mixing and conveying unit; The third throttle valve is installed on the third raw material conveying channel and is used to control the conveying amount of the mixed gas.

6. The artificial photosynthesis reaction apparatus according to claim 1, wherein The photocatalytic regeneration unit further includes: a photocatalytic fluidized bed reactor and a regenerator, wherein... The regenerator includes a feed inlet and a riser. The photocatalyst is added to the regenerator through the feed inlet. After the photocatalyst is preheated and regenerated in the regenerator, the photocatalyst is fed into the fluidized bed reactor through the riser. The photocatalytic fluidized bed reactor receives catalyst from the regenerator and mixed gas from the mixing and transport unit. In the photocatalytic fluidized bed reactor, the mixed gas undergoes a fluidization reaction under the action of the photocatalyst to obtain a mixture of methanol and the unreacted mixed gas, and the mixture is sent to the separation unit. The photocatalytic fluidized bed reactor includes a first feedback channel located at the bottom of the reactor, which recovers the deactivated photocatalyst after the reaction and returns it to the regenerator.

7. The artificial photosynthesis reaction apparatus according to claim 6, wherein The separation unit includes a separator and a second feedback channel. The separator is used to separate the methanol and the unreacted gas mixture from the mixture and to deliver the methanol to the outside. The second feedback channel connects the separator and the photocatalytic fluidized bed reactor, and sends the unreacted mixed gas back to the photocatalytic fluidized bed reactor.

8. The artificial photosynthesis reaction apparatus according to claim 7, wherein A throttle valve is provided on the second feedback channel to prevent the backflow of the unreacted gas mixture.

9. The artificial photosynthesis reaction apparatus according to claim 7, characterized in that, The separator includes a condenser, a gas separator, or an adsorption device, used to separate the methanol from the unreacted gas mixture.

10. An artificial photosynthesis reaction system that enhances catalytic performance, characterized by, The system includes: a control system and an artificial photosynthesis reaction apparatus as described in any one of claims 1-9.

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