Fuels

The integration of enzymatic and inorganic systems is an interesting approach that allows the use of the properties of enzymes (high selectivity and high rate) in the synthesis of chemicals. We have developed a hybrid system for the conversion of CO₂ into methanol in water at room temperature with recycling of the co-factor NADH promoted by photocatalysts that use visible light.

This system is relevant to the reduction of CO₂ to fuels, only possible if water or waste organics are used as source of hydrogen and perennial energies (sun, wind) as energy source.

Manmade Photosynthesis is the approach that can bring to recycling huge volumes of CO₂ in the medium-long term.

Beside the hybrid process summarized above Researchers at IC²R also investigate the direct photoconversion of CO₂ in water using ad hoc designed photocatalysts.