Renewable Syngas Generation via Low-Temperature Electrolysis: Opportunities and Challenges

Abstract

The production of syngas (i.e., a mixture of CO and H 2 ) via the electrochemical reduction of CO 2 and water can contribute to the green transition of various industrial sectors.Here we provide a joint academic−industrial perspective on the key technical and economical differences of the concurrent (i.e., CO and H 2 are generated in the same electrolyzer cell) and separated (i.e., CO and H 2 are electrogenerated in different electrolyzers) production of syngas. Using a combination of literature analysis, experimental data, and techno-economic analysis, we demonstrate that the production of synthesis gas is notably less expensive if we operate a CO 2 electrolyzer in a COselective mode and combine it with a separate PEM electrolyzer for H 2 generation. We also conclude that by the further decrease of the cost of renewable electricity and the increase of CO 2 emission taxes, such prepared renewable syngas will become cost competitive.

An active, stable cubic molybdenum carbide catalyst for the high-temperature reverse water-gas shift reaction

“…In this context, production of CO through the reverse water-gas shift (RWGS) reaction is gaining attention because the produced CO or syngas (CO + H 2 ) can be used as building blocks to produce a variety of chemicals in tandem catalytic systems ( 5 ). In 2022, syngas had a market size of 218 million normal cubic meters per hour (Nm 3 /hour), and it is expected to increase to 382.9 million Nm 3 /hour by 2028, showing a compound annual growth rate of 9.5% ( 6 ). Most syngas conversion reactions are established commercial technologies, highlighting the immense value of CO and syngas.…”