As the global community works to reduce greenhouse gas emissions, MIT researchers are investigating ways to capture and convert carbon dioxide into useful products cost-effectively. In a study published in Nature Communications, a team led by MIT doctoral student Simon Rufer and professor Kripa Varanasi developed a new electrode design that enhances the efficiency of converting CO2 into ethylene, a versatile chemical used in various applications. By incorporating copper wires into a hydrophobic plastic material, the team overcame the challenges of conductivity and hydrophobicity, paving the way for scalable and efficient carbon conversion systems. Their innovative approach could have a significant impact on addressing the CO2 challenge.
https://news.mit.edu/2024/mit-engineers-make-converting-co2-into-products-more-practical-1113