Nickel-based catalysts eliminate greenhouse gas

CO2 transformations Nickel-based catalysts eliminate greenhouse gas

2024-12-04 Source: Fritz-Haber-Institut der Max-Planck-Gesellschaft | Translated by AI 1 min Reading Time

A recent study aims to demonstrate how to use individual atoms to convert CO₂ into other chemical resources.

Nickel can be used as a component in catalysts. With these, it is possible to convert CO2 into CO. The process of these reactions is now better understood, it is said, opening up new possibilities...(Image: Metalfanatic) — Nickel can be used as a component in catalysts. With these, it is possible to convert CO2 into CO. The process of these reactions is now better understood, it is said, opening up new possibilities...
(Image: Metalfanatic)

A study published in the Physical Review Letters by the Interface Science Department at the Fritz Haber Institute has revealed new insights into the electrocatalytic reduction of CO₂ using nickel-based catalysts. Nickel and nitrogen co-doped carbon catalysts (Ni-N-C) have shown, as further stated, exceptional performance in converting CO₂ into CO, a valuable chemical raw material. However, the exact mechanism of action of these catalysts has remained unclear until now. But now, more clarity has been gained.

Detailed insights into the reaction process

The experts used techniques such as operando X-ray absorption spectroscopy (XAS) and valence-to-core X-ray emission spectroscopy (vtc-XES) to observe the catalysts in action. These methods, combined with machine learning (ML) and density functional theory, enabled the team to map the local atomic and electronic structure of the catalysts with unprecedented detail. This work illustrates the power of a multi-technique operando characterization approach, combined with ML and modeling, to gain deeper mechanistic insights. Understanding how nickel-based catalysts interact with carbon dioxide at the atomic level is crucial for the more rational design of these catalysts to improve efficiency and selectivity. The current study is referred to as a kind of high-tech camera that precisely shows how substances mix and change, allowing adjustments to the recipe (and/or the process conditions) during the reaction for optimal results.

This breakthrough means for the future

This study not only enhances the understanding of nickel-based catalysts but also paves the way for future advances in CO₂ reduction processes. By providing a detailed picture of how these catalysts work, the research opens up new possibilities for developing even more efficient systems for converting carbon dioxide into valuable products.

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Date: 08.12.2025

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