Results in Chemistry (Jan 2024)

Recent developments of carbon nanotubes-based nanocomposites for hydrogen production, carbon dioxide capture and conversion

  • Dina Thole,
  • Kwena D. Modibane,
  • Reineck Mhlaba,
  • Sheriff A. Balogun,
  • Rehana Malgas-Enus,
  • Ebrahiem Botha,
  • Nicholas M. Musyoka,
  • Cornelia G.C.E. van Sittert

Journal volume & issue
Vol. 7
p. 101496

Abstract

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The urgent need for sustainable energy solutions and greenhouse gas mitigation has driven extensive research into advanced materials and technologies. This review provides an overview of the recent developments and advancements in the synthesis and application of carbon nanotubes for the integrated hydrogen production process with carbon dioxide capture and conversion. This work highlights the key methods employed for the synthesis of carbon nanotubes, including chemical vapor deposition, arc discharge, and laser ablation methods. The structural and morphological characteristics of these nanocomposites are explored, emphasizing their influence on catalytic activity, selectivity, and stability in hydrogen production reactions. Furthermore, the role of carbon nanotubes in carbon dioxide capture and conversion is discussed. These materials serve as efficient sorbents for CO2 capture due to their high surface area and tunable surface chemistry. Moreover, carbon nanotube-based catalysts integrated into nanocomposites facilitate the conversion of captured CO2 into value-added products, such as hydrocarbons of different functionalities. The challenges and opportunities associated with hydrogen production and CO2 capture and conversion are thoroughly addressed using carbon nanotubes. In summary, these multifunctional materials hold great promise in contributing to a sustainable and clean energy future while mitigating the effects of climate change.

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