UNC Chemistry researchers have made a significant breakthrough in solar technology, offering a promising solution to mitigate greenhouse gas emissions. Their study, published in ACS Energy Letters, outlines a novel method using modified silicon surfaces to efficiently convert carbon dioxide (CO2) into carbon monoxide (CO) using sunlight.

By employing a process called methyl termination, which modifies silicon with a simple organic compound, researchers have enhanced the performance of solar cells in CO2 conversion. This advancement aligns with artificial photosynthesis principles, mimicking nature's ability to harness sunlight for energy-rich molecule synthesis.

Lead author Gabriella Bein highlights the potential of storing solar power in liquid fuels for later use, addressing challenges of solar energy availability and raw material sourcing for chemical synthesis. The integration of a ruthenium molecular catalyst with modified silicon photoelectrodes enables efficient CO2 reduction, minimizing unwanted byproducts.

Co-author Jillian Dempsey emphasizes the remarkable efficiency achieved, with an 87% CO production rate, and reduced energy requirements compared to traditional methods. Supported by the Center for Hybrid Approaches in Solar Energy to Liquid Fuels (CHASE), this research represents a collaborative effort across institutions to advance solar fuel production.

This breakthrough holds promise for scalable solutions in carbon-neutral energy production, offering hope for a cleaner, greener future. As global efforts intensify to combat climate change, innovations like these are crucial steps towards a more sustainable planet.

Based on: https://chem.unc.edu