CO2 electrochemical reduction to formic acid: An overview of process sustainability

Abstract

CO2 Electrochemical Reduction (CO2 ECR) is a promising technology that converts CO2 into value-added products, including formic acid, ethanol, and methanol, by applying external voltage. This technology is not only considered a CO2 mitigation process but a process that produces value-added chemicals reducing dependence on fossil fuels. This review assesses the sustainability of the CO2 ECR process by focusing on life cycle assessment and techno-economic evaluation studies. Recent advances in catalysts and cell structures for CO2 ECR are also discussed from a sustainability perspective. Furthermore, the integration of CO2 ECR with renewable resources as a power source is highlighted. The review aims to determine the sustainability of CO2 conversion for formic acid production and to provide guidelines for future advancements. Research gaps and challenges are also provided.

Keywords

• Sustainability
• CO2 electrochemical reduction
• Renewable energy
• Techno-economic analysis
• Life cycle assessment