Electrochemical CO2 Reduction for Stable Methanol Synthesis
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Solution Overview
Problem
The challenge lies in stabilizing the operation of devices that convert chemical energy from unstable natural energy sources into chemical products, such as methanol, due to the instability of energy supply from renewable sources, leading to inefficiencies and high costs in energy storage and transmission.
Innovation Solution
A chemical reaction system comprising a supply source for carbon compounds, an electrochemical reaction device for reducing carbon dioxide, and a reactor for converting these compounds into products like methanol, where the electrochemical reaction device generates oxygen to enhance the reaction efficiency and stability, allowing for continuous operation and improved energy conversion.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Object-affected harmful factors
If renewable energy sources are used to generate chemical energy, then environmental sustainability is improved, but operation stability deteriorates due to natural energy instability
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces an electrochemical reaction device as an intermediary between the unstable natural energy source and the chemical reaction system. This device includes an electrolyte that facilitates stable electrochemical reactions, mediating the energy conversion process and buffering the instability of renewable energy input while maintaining continuous operation of the chemical synthesis process
Solution Approach 2:
The system changes the physical and chemical parameters of the reaction environment by using an electrochemical reaction device with specific electrolytes and controlled potential conditions. This allows the system to operate at stable parameters despite fluctuations in natural energy input, converting variable renewable energy into stable chemical energy storage
2Productivity
If new devices are introduced for artificial photosynthesis, then chemical energy conversion capability is improved, but system complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the electrochemical reaction device with the chemical reaction system into an integrated apparatus. The electrochemical device and chemical reactor are combined in a single system with shared components such as the electrolyte solution and gas circulation pathways, reducing the number of separate devices needed while maintaining high chemical energy conversion capability
Solution Approach 2:
The electrochemical reaction device serves multiple functions: it acts as an electrolyte solution supply source, a gas separation unit, and an energy conversion device. This multi-functionality reduces the need for separate specialized devices, simplifying the overall system while improving chemical energy conversion efficiency
3Productivity
If electrochemical reaction devices are used to reduce CO2, then chemical product generation is improved, but energy supply stability worsens due to natural energy fluctuations
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements continuous operation of the electrochemical reaction device by using an electrolyte solution circulation system that maintains stable reaction conditions continuously. The system is designed to operate without interruption, with the electrolyte being continuously supplied and circulated, ensuring uninterrupted chemical product generation despite variations in natural energy input
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 system enables stable generation of chemical products like methanol, effectively utilizing renewable energy, improving reaction efficiency, and reducing overall costs by stabilizing energy supply and enhancing energy storage and transport properties.
Implementation Method 1
an electrochemical reaction device configured to generate a second carbon compound by a reduction reaction of carbon dioxide, and oxygen by an oxidation reaction of water
Implementation Method 2
an electrochemical reaction device configured to generate a second carbon compound by a reduction reaction of carbon dioxide, and oxygen by an oxidation reaction of water
Implementation Method 3
a supply source configured to generate a first carbon compound including at least one of carbon monoxide and carbon dioxide
Implementation Method 4
a reactor configured to generate a product including a third carbon compound by a chemical reaction of a reactant including hydrogen and the first and second carbon compounds
Data Source
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AI summary
A chemical reaction system comprises: a supply source to generate a first carbon compound including at least one of carbon monoxide and carbon dioxide; an electrochemical reaction device to generate a second carbon compound including carbon monoxide by a reduction reaction of carbon dioxide; a reactor to generate a product including a third carbon compound by a chemical reaction of a reactant including hydrogen and at least one of the first and second carbon compounds; and a flow path through which the second carbon compound is supplied from the electrochemical reaction device to at least one of the supply source and the reactor.