Plasmonic Composite Catalyst for Hydrocarbon Synthesis
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current methods for converting solar energy into hydrocarbon molecules are inefficient, with low conversion efficiencies and unstable catalysts hindering industrialization, particularly in synthesizing long chain hydrocarbons, and existing catalysts lack the stability required for commercialization.
Innovation Solution
A plasmonic catalytic technology using composite catalysts with atomic sites and nano-base structures, comprising elements like Mn, Co, Fe, and Ru, which are bonded or loaded onto metal-organic frameworks, to produce hydrocarbons from CO or CO2 through energy radiation, enhancing catalytic efficiency and stability.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If conventional catalysts are used for converting solar energy to hydrocarbon molecules, then the conversion process can proceed, but the conversion efficiency is 1 or 2 orders of magnitude lower than natural photosynthesis and catalyst stability is insufficient for industrialization
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs composite catalysts comprising metal-organic frameworks (MOFs) combined with single atom catalysts or atomic clusters. This composite structure integrates the high surface area and tunable porosity of MOFs with the enhanced catalytic activity and stability of single metal atoms or small clusters, achieving both high conversion efficiency and reliable catalyst stability for industrial applications.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent divides traditional bulk metal catalysts into single atoms or small atomic clusters (2-25 atoms) dispersed on MOF supports. This segmentation maximizes the utilization of metal atoms, creating numerous active sites while maintaining structural stability through the MOF framework, thereby simultaneously improving conversion efficiency and catalyst durability.
2Productivity
If plasmonic catalysts are used to enhance local energy on surfaces, then catalytic reaction efficiency is greatly promoted, but the overall reaction conditions require more complex nanostructure design
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces plasmonic metal nanoparticles or atoms (such as Au, Ag, Cu) into the MOF composite catalyst system. These plasmonic components concentrate light energy locally at their surfaces through localized surface plasmon resonance, creating hot spots with enhanced energy density that dramatically promote catalytic reactions. The MOF framework provides a controlled environment that positions these plasmonic centers optimally, balancing enhanced reactivity with manageable structural complexity.
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
The technology achieves high catalyst activity per unit for producing hydrocarbon molecules, with stable performance over extended periods, effectively converting CO2 or CO into hydrocarbons using light or heat radiation, surpassing previous conversion efficiencies and catalyst stability limitations.
Implementation Method 1
Plasmonic catalysts could immensely enhance local energy on surfaces of a nanostructure due to plasmon effect
Implementation Method 2
subjecting the composite catalyst, the hydrogen-containing source and the carbon-containing source to energy radiation, to produce hydrocarbon molecules
Data Source
AI summary
A method for producing a hydrocarbon molecule by means of energy radiation, comprising: contacting a composite catalyst with at least one hydrogen-containing source and at least one carbon-containing source, and radiating energy to the composite catalyst, the hydrogen-containing source, and the carbon-containing source to produce a hydrocarbon molecule, wherein the composite catalyst contains at least one nano-base structure and at least one atom site, and the atom site comprises one or more chemical elements of Mn, Co, Fe, Ru, Rh, Al, Ag, Au, Pt, Pd, Cu, Ni, Zn, Ti, Os, Ir, and La.