Atomically Dispersed Bifunctional Catalysts for Reversible Zn-CO2 Batteries

ended

Atmospheric carbon dioxide (CO2) has increased from 278 to 415 ppm over the industrial period and has critically impacted climate change. Coupling CO2 utilisation with electrochemical energy storage devices, such as metal‐CO2 batteries, represents a promising clean strategy to deal with greenhouse gas effect and energy dilemma simultaneously. We propose to develop an aqueous Zn-CO2 battery prototype based on CO2-HCOOH conversion for high-efficiency energy storage. To achieve this goal, bifunctional Pd-based single-atom catalyst cathodes will be exploited to drive CO2 conversion with high activity and selectivity. We will then probe the reaction mechanism of catalysts by operando analytical tools together with density functional simulations. Moreover, bipolar membrane, gas diffusion electrode, and ionic liquids will be used as alternative approaches to enhance the Zn-CO2 battery performance at cell level. This project is expected to make a significant step forward in the exploitation of single-atom catalysts for CO2 conversion, and accelerate the development of emerging Zn-CO2 batteries. The project also includes a comprehensive training program to enhance the future career prospects of the fellow.