Novel synthesis approaches for CO2 Hydrogenation catalysts using Ionic Liquids

The conversion of carbon dioxide into lower olefins (C2-C4) represents a highly desirable process for establishing a sustainable production pathway. These lower olefins, including ethylene, propylene, and butenes, play pivotal roles in the chemical industry and the production of Liquefied Petroleum Gas (LPG). The reaction unfolds through two consecutive primary processes: Reverse Water Gas Shift (RWGS), generating CO, followed by the subsequent transformation of CO into hydrocarbons through the Fischer−Tropsch reaction. Recent research has underscored the cost-effectiveness and satisfactory performance of Febased catalysts in both reaction steps, with an exploration of bimetallic catalysts, particularly combinations of Ru and Fe, aimed at enhancing olefin selectivity. Precise synthesis of multinanoparticle (MNP) becomes a critical factor for performance control in this context. The study introduces an innovative approach to synthesize iron-ruthenium bimetallic catalysts, utilizing ionic liquids as solvents. This method ensures the precise and uniform distribution of active metal phases. Advanced characterizations and extensive tests reveal that this technique outperforms traditional colloid-based methods, resulting in superior selectivity for the desired hydrocarbons.