In this work, we use plasma-catalysis to convert leftover methane (CH₄) and carbon dioxide (CO₂) in industrial flue gases (e.g., Fischer-Tropsch) into valuable fuels like methanol (MeOH). This approach tackles greenhouse gas emissions from fossil fuel heating while utilizing waste streams.

Summary of Research Outcomes

1. Energy yield: Currently 2.5 μg methanol/J but projected to reach 25 μg methanol /J with process optimization, surpassing conventional methods while achieving zero CO2 emissions.

2. Catalyst deactivation: A major challenge overcome by introducing H2 as a co-reactant, preventing oxidation and improving methanol selectivity from 8% to 24%, ~ 300% increase at ambient conditions.

3. Catalyst optimization: Tuning catalyst properties enhanced selectivity; copper exhibits 10 times higher performance than nickel.

4. Reaction mechanism: DRIFTS analysis reveals that copper facilitates CH3O* formation, a key precursor to methanol, through dissociative adsorption of CO2 and CH4.

Summary of Project Impacts

1. Electrified conversion: Converts unused fuel gas to valuable products at near ambient conditions.

2. Tunable selectivity: Achieves high selectivity for liquid fuels by adjusting plasma, gas phase, and catalyst properties.

3. Enhanced efficiency: Adding co-reactants improves selectivity to ~24% and increases overall efficiency