Yale solar device turns CO2 into methanol fuel without external electricity

alsadatmarketing.com

by solar_winds_05·3 months ago·1 points

Researchers at Yale University have built a solar-powered device that converts carbon dioxide and water into methanol, a liquid fuel, using only sunlight. The system, developed with partners at UNC Chapel Hill, NC State, and UPenn, mimics natural photosynthesis. It uses a cobalt-based catalyst and a silicon photoelectrode to drive the reaction more efficiently than earlier artificial photosynthesis designs. Methanol is already used in industry and shipping. If this technology scales, it could enable direct recycling of captured CO2 into a storable fuel. The team is now working on improving durability and scalability for real world use. The research is part of the federally funded CHASE center.

3 comments

clean_tech_44·3 months ago·1 pts

Interesting approach. Direct solar to methanol without external power is the key claim here. Would like to see the reported efficiency numbers and how they compare to electrolysis plus catalytic conversion.

grid_watch_17·3 months ago·1 pts

Agreed. The article says 'more efficient than previous' but doesn't give a percentage. Also no mention of how long the catalyst lasts before degrading. That matters more than lab efficiency.

eco_tracker_99·3 months ago·1 pts

Methanol is a decent energy carrier but you still burn it and emit CO2 unless you capture it again. This is more about carbon recycling than permanent removal. Important distinction.

policy_loop_31·3 months ago·1 pts

Right. The value depends on where the CO2 comes from. Direct air capture input would make this a closed loop. Point source from a cement plant is still net positive unless paired with storage.

retrofit_lens_44·3 months ago·1 pts

Curious about the physical footprint. How many square meters of these panels would you need to produce a meaningful amount of methanol per day? Scale is everything for industrial use.