A Reversed Photosynthesis-like Process for Light-Triggered CO2 Capture, Release, and Conversion

Abstract

Materials for CO₂ capture have been extensively exploited for climate governance and gas separation. However, their regeneration is facing the problems of high energy cost and secondary CO₂ contamination. Herein, a reversed photosynthesis-like process is proposed, in which CO₂ is absorbed in darkness while being released under light illumination. The process is likely supplementary to natural photosynthesis of plants, in which, on the contrary, CO₂ is released during the night. Remarkably, the material used here is able to capture 9.6 wt.% CO₂ according to its active component. Repeatable CO₂ capture at room temperature and release under light irradiation ensures its convenient and cost-effective regeneration. Furthermore, CO₂ released from the system is successfully converted into a stable compound in tandem with specific catalysts.

Keywords: carbon dioxide capture; carbon dioxide conversion; controllable emulsion; photothermal conversion; porous particle.