Problems with storing solar energy efficiently have significantly limited its utilization. We are addressing this issue through the search for inexpensive catalysts that could efficiently combine solar electricity with carbon dioxide and/or protons to generate fuels. These fuels could then be stored and burned for energy as needed. In order to find electrocatalysts that can reduce carbon dioxide and/or protons at relatively positive potentials, we are focusing on inexpensive, solution-phase organic molecules and transition metal complexes that will likely transfer both protons and electrons simultaneously. Possible catalysts are being tested using cyclic voltammetry in both organic and aqueous solutions, and they are being evaluated based on the potentials and currents involved in their reductions of carbon dioxide and/or protons.

Evaluation of possible electrocatalysts for the reduction of carbon dioxide and/or protons utilizing cyclic voltammetry

245th National Meeting (2013)

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