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Industrial Research And Consultancy Centre
Patent
Reversible CO2 /CO Conversion by a Homogeneous Copper-based Molecular Catalyst
Abstract

This invention underlines the production process of a Cu-based CO2RR catalyst. The catalyst comprises of a multi-functional redox-active ligand framework around a copper core For the redox-active ligand, one of 2-(phenylazo)pyridine and 6-amino-2(phenylazo)pyridine is chosen, used for producing the catalysts bis-(2-(phenylazo)pyridine)[PAP] copper(I) perchlorate and bis-(6-amino-2(phenylazo)pyridine) [APAP] copper(I) perchlorate. 

The active ligand is used to prepare a mixture solution that is evaporated, and the residue boiled, dissolved and crystallized to give the catalyst. The crystals of the catalyst have the ratio of copper to redox-active ligand between 1:1 and 1:4.

Figure (1) Image illustrates (A) The structure of Ni-Fe CODH enzyme along with its active site (prior art). (B) The generalized chemical structures complex C1 and C2. Here, the beige and blue circles depict the central metal center and redox partners, respectively. ORTEP drawings of single crystal structures of (C) complex C1, and (D) C2. Displacement ellipsoids are drawn at the 50% probability level. Hydrogen atoms are shown as spheres of arbitrary radii. Cu and N atoms are displayed as purple and blue atoms, respectively.

Problem Statement

Global industrialization and high energy demands have increased the consumption of carbon-based fuel sources like coal and petroleum. A significant amount of CO2 is emitted into the atmosphere, which has a lot of severe effects on global health. Current CO2 management technologies store CO2 in the terminal form at their source, which helps but still disturbs the biogeochemical cycles of the environment which involve CO2

CO2 can be reduced to CO via reduction so it can be used in manufacturing processes. This process of CO2 reduction, called CO2RR, is very energy demanding. A biocatalyst called CODH catalyzes this reaction and attempts to make synthetic replications are still in their infancy. Thus, there is a need for an efficient CO2 /CO synthetic conversion catalyst.

Uniqueness of the Solution
  • Efficient reduction of CO2: Cu based catalysts, as present here, display better CO2RR performance that CODH, which is a Ni-Fe based catalyst 
  • Solvent flexibility: the catalyst works in both aqueous and inorganic solvents 
  • Reversible catalysis shown: the catalyst shows reversible catalysis via both electrochemical and chemical pathways.
Prototype Details

The prototype consists of hard-carbon nanospheres synthesized through a sol-gel process followed by carbonization. These nanostructures were tested for their ability to adsorb heavy metals from contaminated water and to absorb solar radiation for heating and purification purposes, confirming the concept’s viability in laboratory conditions.

Current Status of Technology

The technology demonstrates laboratory-level success, where the synthesis of porous hard-carbon nanostructures has been achieved using resorcinol-formaldehyde resin. Experimental results confirm effectiveness in water purification and solar-thermal conversion.

Technology readiness level

4

Societal Impact

This invention can significantly improve access to clean drinking water and promote sustainable water treatment methods, especially in underserved or polluted regions. Its dual utility in environmental remediation and renewable energy enhances public health, reduces reliance on harmful chemicals, and supports eco-friendly development goals.

Applications or Domain

The patent finds application in purifying contaminated water by removing toxic heavy metals like lead, and in solar energy systems for thermal heating and disinfection. It is suited for environmental cleanup, clean water supply in rural or disaster-hit areas, and sustainable energy solutions.

Geography of IP

Type of IP

Application Number

202221011195

Filing Date
Grant Number

435947

Grant Date
Assignee(s)
Indian Institute of Technology Bombay
**This IP is owned by IIT Bombay**