In-situ Carbon Dioxide Reduction Reaction in Bipolar Membrane Electrochemical Systems

Carbon dioxide (CO2) in air is commonly captured using alkaline electrolytes such as potassium hydroxide (KOH), which react with CO2 to form potassium bicarbonate (KHCO3). To convert the captured CO2 into useful chemical feedstocks or fuels, the absorbed solution is typically heated to regenerate pure CO2, which is then converted through chemical or electrochemical processes such as the CO2 reduction reaction (CO2RR). These thermal regeneration and separation steps are among the most energy-intensive and costly parts of the overall process. In this project, we aim to bypass these steps by directly converting KHCO3 into value-added chemicals, such as ethylene. This is achieved using a bipolar membrane (BPM), which supplies protons (H+) to locally acidify the electrolyte, thereby releasing CO2 in-situ from KHCO3. The generated CO2 is immediately converted to ethylene on the catalyst surface. The objective of this project is to enhance catalyst efficiency and optimize operating conditions to maximize ethylene production.

Faculty Supervisor:

Ali Seifitokaldani

Student:

Partner:

École Polytechnique

Discipline:

Engineering

Sector:

Education

University:

McGill University

Program: