The_Catalyst_Review_June_2023 - 14

SPECIAL FEATURE
Materials and Technologies for Energy Storage: CO2
to Methane
Methane is the primary contributor to the formation of ground-level ozone and a potent GHG with a global warming potential (GWP) 80
times more than carbon dioxide. The most important uses of methane, in the form of natural gas, include the production of electricity,
the production of heat, the utilization as a fuel for transportation, and the production of chemicals such as hydrogen and synthesis gas
production.
Considering the current utilization of natural
gas, there is no doubt that, in the coming
decades, the utilization of methane will
remain extremely high. However, there
is an urgent need to replace the source
of methane, switching from fossil natural
gas to renewable sources. This option has
the advantage of reducing CO2
emissions
in the atmosphere and has the potential
to stabilize the electric grid. Stabilization
is a vital issue in case of high market
penetration of renewable energy as well
as for allowing the seasonal storage of
renewable energy. In this regard, the easy
storage and dispatchment, the efficient
conversion back to power, the higher safety
compared to alternative energy carriers/
buffers, and the public acceptability are
unique characteristics of CO2
technologies (Figure 6).
to-methane
Figure 6. The combined CO2
capture and methanation. Source: Duryar et al., 2015
Conclusions
Although it will take some time to advance
power-to-X (PtX) technologies to the level
required for broad deployment, interest
will remain high, especially in a mediumterm
scenario, when the share of renewable
electricity will be already large enough to
require energy storage processes. At the same
time, there will still be enough CO2
-emitting
processes. Costs associated with development
and commercialization will undoubtedly be
an essential consideration for the applications
covered in this study. If the necessary R&D
projects, technical improvements, and political
choices are made in the coming years, energy
storage may occur using batteries, fuel cells, and/
or alternate sources, making it cost-competitive
far before the 2050 deadline suggested by
others.
Your Author
Dr. Eugene F. McInerney received his doctorate in organometallic chemistry from St. John's University (NY). As
a 60-year member of the American Chemical Society, he has been involved in various technological challenges
and innovations in such diverse fields as photocatalysis, semiconductor fabrication, polymer synthesis
and fabrication, composite materials, and alternate energy systems. His professional experience includes
corporate roles in business and market development, international licensing, program management, mergers
and acquisitions, and strategic planning. For the past 20 years, he has applied his skills to assist emerging
companies in achieving sustainability. Since 2010 he has served as a contributor to The Catalyst Review for
the " Experimental " and " Movers & Shakers " features. He can be reached at gmcinerney@catalyst.com.
14
The Catalyst Review
June 2023
FINAL REMARKS
Catalysis is becoming increasingly important in the field of biowaste
decomposition due to its ability to reduce the temperature at which
biowaste decomposes, simplify subsequent chemistry, and add value to
post-decomposition processes. These factors will enable the conversion
of more bio-wastes into better-value chemical products.
The adoption of large-scale electrified chemical industries is faced with
a series of challenges, such as cost, infrastructure, policy and regulation,
and industry flexibility. However, there is widespread agreement that
more sustainable processes must be implemented as soon as possible,
and industries and governments must raise awareness from an economic,
environmental, and social standpoint.
The development of more active, selective, and stable catalysts and
the design of reactors that can withstand the high exothermicity of CO2
hydrogenation require significant R&D to bring these technologies
to commercial readiness. Costs associated with development and
commercialization will be a guiding element. Still, an industrial focus on
chemical energy storage is essential due to technological advancements
and the potential for reducing environmental impact.

The_Catalyst_Review_June_2023

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