Electrochemical methane production from CO₂ for orbital and interplanetary refueling

Area of Science:

• Chemical Engineering
• Planetary Science
• Sustainable Energy

Background:

• Renewable CO2 electrosynthesis is a promising technology for converting greenhouse gases into valuable chemicals.
• Cost-competitiveness with fossil-derived products remains a significant barrier to widespread adoption on Earth.
• Methane (CH4) is a key target product, with research focusing on CO2 methanation.

Purpose of the Study:

• To conduct a comparative analysis of CO2 electrosynthesis and the Sabatier reaction for power-to-gas applications from an aerospace perspective.
• To identify research priorities and deployment parameters for these technologies in space exploration.
• To explore the potential of Martian atmospheric CO2 for in-situ resource utilization.

Main Methods:

• Technoeconomic analysis of CO2 methanation processes.
• Comparative assessment of CO2 electrosynthesis versus the Sabatier reaction.
• Evaluation of space-based applications, including the International Space Station and rocket propulsion.

Main Results:

• CO2 methanation faces economic challenges on Earth due to competition with low-cost natural gas.
• The Sabatier reaction is already utilized on the International Space Station for resource recycling.
• Methane propulsion systems are under development for reusable rocket engines.
• Mars, with its high CO2 atmosphere, presents a unique opportunity for in-situ resource utilization.

Conclusions:

• Aerospace applications provide a compelling case for CO2 methanation technologies, particularly for life support and propulsion.
• Future research should focus on optimizing these processes for space environments and potential Martian deployment.
• Successful implementation in space could offer insights for mitigating climate change on Earth.