Introduction

In a groundbreaking study, a research team spearheaded by Dr. Joey Disch and PD Dr. Severin Vierrath from Hahn-Schickard and the University of Freiburg, in collaboration with the French Institut Laue-Langevin in Grenoble, has unveiled remarkable insights into the water distribution during CO₂ electrolysis. Their significant findings, originally published in ACS Energy Letters, have now taken center stage in the February issue of Nature Catalysis.

Neutron Imaging Breakthroughs

Utilizing high-resolution neutron imaging, one of the most advanced techniques available for investigating water transport in electrolyzers, the researchers were able to visualize crucial transport mechanisms during pulsed operation of a CO₂ electrolyzer. This cutting-edge method, boasting a spatial resolution of just 6 micrometers, permitted an exceptionally precise examination of water distribution and the formation of salt deposits under realistic operating conditions (400 mA cm² at a cell voltage of 3.1 V, with an impressive Faradaic efficiency for carbon monoxide production at 95%).

Advantages of Neutron Imaging

What makes neutron imaging particularly advantageous over traditional X-ray methods is its ability to penetrate metallic components easily, rendering hydrogen and water-rich structures highly visible. This capability has proven pivotal in understanding the electrolyzer's workings.

Findings on Electrolyzer Performance

Notably, the research revealed how the electrolyzer's stability significantly improves during pulsed operation intervals where the cell potential is temporarily lowered below the onset of reduction. Neutron imaging illustrates that these brief operational pauses lead to an increased water content in the gas diffusion layer, which effectively facilitates the breakdown of problematic salt deposits that can hinder performance.

Implications for the Chemical Industry

The implications of electrochemical CO₂ reduction could reshape the future of the chemical industry, paving the way for sustainable practices. Specifically, CO₂ electrolysis for carbon monoxide production is on the verge of industrial implementation. Electrolysis cells equipped with anion exchange membranes have already demonstrated remarkable efficiency due to optimized reactant management techniques and minimized resistance losses.

Conclusion

This groundbreaking research provides crucial insights for further enhancing the design and operational protocols of CO₂ electrolyzers, improving their efficiency and longevity. It also plays a vital role in efforts to mitigate CO₂ emissions, contributing significantly to fighting climate change and promoting greener technologies.

Funding and Acknowledgments

With financial support from the Vector Foundation (CO2-to-X) and previous funding from the German Federal Ministry of Education and Research (ErUM Pro 05K19VFA, NeutroSense), this research marks a pivotal advancement in environmental sustainability. The authors express their gratitude to the Institut Laue-Langevin (ILL) for facilitating the neutron radiography experiment.

Future Outlook

Stay tuned for more updates on how the pursuit of rich, clean energy solutions is transforming our approach to a sustainable future!