Single-atom alloy Ir/Ni catalyst boosts CO₂ methanation via mechanochemistry

Area of Science:

• Catalysis
• Materials Science
• Chemical Engineering

Background:

• Carbon dioxide (CO2) methanation is crucial for CO2 utilization and renewable energy storage.
• Developing highly efficient and stable catalysts for CO2 methanation remains a significant challenge.

Purpose of the Study:

• To pioneer a new catalytic approach for CO2 methanation using a single atom alloy.
• To investigate the performance and stability of an Ir/Ni catalyst synthesized via ball-milling.

Main Methods:

• Synthesis of a single atom alloy Ir/Ni catalyst utilizing a ball-milling technique.
• Evaluation of catalytic activity and stability for CO2 methanation at 350 °C.

Main Results:

• The Ir/Ni catalyst achieved a high turnover frequency (TOFCH4) of 10244 h⁻¹.
• The catalyst demonstrated a remarkable lifetime of 220 hours without deactivation at 350 °C.
• Excellent catalytic efficiency was observed, particularly in the presence of mechanical energy.

Conclusions:

• Single atom alloy Ir/Ni catalysts synthesized by ball-milling offer a promising route for efficient CO2 methanation.
• The catalyst's high activity and stability highlight the potential of mechanical energy in catalytic processes.
• This approach provides a new avenue for CO2 conversion and valorization.