CO2 can be turned into liquid hydrocarbons to make fuel for planes

Scientists from the National University of Singapore have developed a novel method to convert carbon dioxide (CO2) into valuable liquid hydrocarbons, which are key components of jet fuel. Using nickel-based catalysts doped with fluoride ions and employing pulsed potential electrolysis, the team achieved unprecedented control over the production of hydrocarbons, particularly in tuning the molecular structure to favor branched and longer-chain hydrocarbons up to six carbon atoms (C6). This advancement addresses limitations seen in copper-based catalysts and enhances the selectivity and efficiency of the electrochemical CO2 reduction (CO2R) process. The study highlights that fluoride doping stabilizes the nickel catalyst’s oxidation state under reducing conditions, promoting the formation of longer hydrocarbon chains. Pulsed potential electrolysis significantly increased the ratio of branched to linear hydrocarbons by over 400% compared to conventional methods, which is important for producing advanced sustainable aviation fuels. By combining catalyst synthesis, mechanistic studies, and computational modeling, the researchers uncovered new reaction pathways and