Next-Generation Energy Technologies Integrated Photoelectrically
Abstract:
To combat global warming, achieving net-zero or net-negative CO2 emissions is essential. The EU, in line with the Paris Agreement, aims to reduce emissions by 40% and increase the share of renewable energy to 32% by 2030.
Another challenge the planet faces is the massive accumulation of PET plastic waste, prompting the EU to seek innovative recycling solutions. Solar-powered systems offer a clean and cost-effective alternative by converting CO2 into fuels while simultaneously recycling PET waste into high-value products. Moreover, integrating PET oxidation also aims to overcome the substantial overpotential loss associated with conventional reactions, making the process more efficient.
The PHOENIX project seeks to enable the stepwise conversion of CO2 (initially from CO2 to CO, followed by the conversion of CO into propanol) while simultaneously transforming PET plastic waste into glycolic acid through an innovative strategy. The proposed concept arises from the design of a multi-reactor CO2 reduction pathway that seamlessly integrates photovoltaic-electrolyzer (PV-EC) and photoelectrochemical (PEC) technologies.
To facilitate these processes, PHOENIX will develop and integrate an advanced tandem photovoltaic system generating >2 V, novel electrocatalysts that convert CO into n-PrOH and PET into glycolic acid, and efficient photoelectrodes.
Finally, the PHOENIX concept will also be validated at TRL 3-4 through a lab-scale demonstration, identifying and addressing environmental impact via Life Cycle Assessment and evaluating the recyclability of materials. PHOENIX tackles two urgent global challenges with a high-risk/high-reward approach, ultimately promoting a breakthrough in the renewable energy sector.
Leitat’s Role in the Project:
Development of photoanodes for selective EGOR toward GA
Design and development of the solar concentration system
Characterization of the PEC reactor and fabrication of PAMEA
Design and fabrication of the PV-PEC reactor prototype
Testing and validation of the PV-PEC prototype
Integration of the PV-EC-PEC device
Project Budget: 2.966.261,25€
Financial Framework: Horizon Europe
Start Date: 01/10/2024
Leitat Budget: 470.821,25€
Contract Number: 101172764
End Date: 30/09/2027
Partners:
This project has received funding from the European Union’s Horizon Europe research and innovation programme under grant agreement No 101172764. Funded by the European Union.
