Solid Catalyst with Ionic Liquid Layer (SCILL) for Direct CO2 Hydrogenation to Methanol: Enhancing Performance and Stability

This research investigates the use of Solid Catalysts with Ionic Liquid Layers (SCILL) for CO2 direct hydrogenation to methanol with copper-based methanol synthesis catalysts (CZA). Ionic liquids (ILs), known as "designer solvents" for their tunable properties, offer excellent gas solubility, particularly for CO2, making them ideal for enhancing catalytic processes like hydrogenation and enabling efficient, high-temperature applications. Initial results indicated lower methanol yields compared to the uncoated heterogeneous catalyst, likely due to stability issues with the SCILL system in the presence of water. However, the introduction of Ionic liquid Li[NTf2] doping led to a significant improvement in catalytic performance, enhancing CH3OH conversion rates compared to traditional CZA. Additionally, this doping increased system stability, especially in the presence of water. These results highlight the potential of SCILL catalysts as a more efficient and stable solution for CO2 hydrogenation, contributing to sustainable methanol production and CO2 mitigation.