Optimization of Piezoelectric CO₂ Reduction on ZnO Via α-Fe₂O₃ Decoration for Enhanced Activity and Selectivity.

Peng, Fengping; Xie, Zhuojiong; Li, Haozhen; Kai, Xuan; Wang, Wei; Wu, Chunzheng

Using piezoelectric catalysis to convert CO2 and water into fuels or chemicals with waste mechanical energy offers a solution to carbon emissions and energy deficits. The current challenges are the limited efficiency and unpredictable product selectivity. In this study, a novel heterojunction material was prepared by integrating α-Fe2O3 nanoparticles with ZnO microrods through a hydrothermal treatment of their mixture. Through careful optimization of the α-Fe2O3 content on ZnO surface, the CO2 reduction rate transitioned from 8.5 μmol·h−1·g−1 (CH4) and 32.9 μmol·h−1·g−1 (CHOOH) to 118.2 μmol·h−1·g−1 (CH4) and 18.4 μmol·h−1·g−1 (CHOOH), leading to a substantial enhancement in CH4 selectivity from 20.6% to 86.5%. Combining CO2 temperature-programmed desorption, electrochemical analysis, and photoluminescence, it was found that α-Fe2O3 plays a crucial role in promoting charge separation and increasing CO2 adsorption on the catalysts, resulting in a more effective and deeper reduction of CO2 into CH4. Our research outlines a strategic methodology for boosting CO2 reduction efficiency and precisely tailoring the products from piezoelectric catalysis.

ELECTROCHEMICAL analysis; MECHANICAL energy; CARBON emissions; WASTE products as fuel; CARBON dioxide

Catalysis Letters, 2024, Vol 154, Issue 10, p5271

1011-372X

Academic Journal

10.1007/s10562-024-04732-9