CO2 to Methane Conversion via Visible Light Photocatalysis
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current methods for converting carbon dioxide to methane require high temperatures or specific types of light, limiting their application to natural environmental conditions.
Innovation Solution
A method involving a nanoporous silicate matrix with a photocatalyst, such as photochromic metal oxides or bimetallic coordination complexes, exposed to visible and near-infrared light to convert carbon dioxide to methane, using carbon dioxide and hydrogen sources.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If thermal reaction or ultraviolet light photocatalysis is used to convert CO2 to CH4, then methane production occurs, but high temperatures or specific light conditions are required
Solution Approach 1:
The patent changes the energy input parameter from high-energy UV light or thermal energy to visible/near-infrared light, enabling the photocatalytic reaction to proceed at room temperature. This parameter change in the energy spectrum allows CO2 conversion without requiring elevated temperatures or UV irradiation
Solution Approach 2:
The patent employs composite photocatalyst materials that combine metal carbonyl complexes with specific ligands or support structures, creating materials that absorb visible and near-infrared light. These composite structures enable broad-spectrum light absorption and efficient charge separation, achieving methane production under ambient conditions
2Productivity
If ultraviolet light is used for photocatalytic conversion, then CO2 to CH4 conversion occurs, but the energy source is not solar-compatible
Solution Approach 1:
The patent shifts the operational wavelength parameter from ultraviolet to visible and near-infrared regions, matching the solar spectrum. This enables direct utilization of solar energy for photocatalytic CO2 reduction, making the process solar-compatible and eliminating the need for UV light sources
Solution Approach 2:
The photocatalyst system is designed to absorb multiple wavelengths including visible and near-infrared light, allowing it to function under various light sources including sunlight, incandescent lamps, and LED illumination. This multi-functional light absorption capability enables versatile application scenarios
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
This method enables the conversion of carbon dioxide to methane at room temperature with minimal energy requirements, using solar energy and reducing greenhouse gas emissions, while maintaining efficiency and effectiveness.
Implementation Method 1
A method for conversion of carbon dioxide to methane through a photocatalytic process. The method uses visible and near infra-red light as a source of energy.
Implementation Method 2
The matrix contains at least one photocatalyst... photochromic metal oxides or bimetallic coordination complexes
Implementation Method 3
exposing carbon dioxide adsorbed on a nanoporous silicate matrix to light
Data Source
AI summary
The invention relates to a method for converting carbon dioxide to methane. The method comprises exposing carbon dioxide adsorbed on a nanoporous silicate matrix to light in the presence of a source of carbon dioxide and a source of hydrogen for a time and under conditions sufficient to convert carbon dioxide to methane. The matrix contains at least one photochromic metal oxide entity, and contains a C1 impurity site. The light has a wavelength of about 437 nm to about 1200 nm.