Highly efficient catalyst for carbon dioxide reduction via photocatalytic carbon dioxide-based reforming of methane

Abstract

Greenhouse gases such as carbon dioxide (CO2) and methane (CH4) are the primary causes of global warming. The concentration of CO2 and CH4 in the environment has been increasing due to an increased human activity over the past few decades. Various strategies have been conducted to reduce the number of emissions of CO2 and CH4. Even though the emissions have been controlled, the amount of CO2 in the atmosphere has not been reduced significantly. Numerous efforts have been taken to convert the greenhouse gases into an alternative source of energy, such as ocean injection, scrubbing, and mineral carbonation. However, these technologies are expensive and hard to be popularized. Meanwhile, reducing CO2 via photocatalytic process to produce fuels by using solar energy turns to be an attractive method. This strategy can address both energy and environmental issues. In this thesis work, three photocatalysts were employed to enhance the photocatalytic activities of CO2 reforming of methane, which includes (I) Pt-TiO2, (II) Ru-TiO2, and (III) Co-TiO2. It was also proved that the visible light activity was enhanced. This system will provide a novel approach for the utilization of solar energy for chemical fuel production utilizing solar energy.