Scientists Develop Catalyst to Convert CO₂ into Ethanol

A research team led by Professor Hyoyoung Lee of the Department of Chemistry at Sungkyunkwan University has successfully developed a novel catalyst capable of converting carbon dioxide directly into ethanol using electricity with high selectivity.

The electrochemical process relies on an atomic-scale synergy between copper and zinc (Cu–Zn). This atomic interaction directs asymmetric carbon-carbon (C–C) coupling during CO2 electroreduction, enabling precise conversion pathways toward ethanol.

By facilitating efficient C–C coupling, the catalyst aims to streamline the electroreduction of carbon dioxide into valuable chemical products. The high selectivity helps avoid unwanted secondary compounds typically generated during standard electrochemical reactions.

The complete findings from the study were published in the scientific journal Applied Catalysis B: Environment and Energy. The paper is titled 'Atomic-scale Cu–Zn synergy directs asymmetric C–C coupling for ethanol-selective CO2 electroreduction.'

The work was conducted at Sungkyunkwan University under the leadership of Professor Lee, highlighting ongoing efforts in chemical research and sustainable carbon recycling solutions.