ZECO · Development of Copper-Zeolite Dual-functional Materials for Integrated CO2 Capture and Conversion

Dual-functional materials (DFMs) lie at the core of Integrated CO2 Capture and Utilization (ICCU), transformative approach that merges CO2 capture and conversion within a single process, eliminating intermediate energy-intensive steps. Current state-of the-art DFMs are oxide-based, which require a harsh regeneration environment at 600-900 °C, leading to sintering and structural degradation. Zeolites offer an innovative alternative due to their tunable adsorption sites and milder regeneration temperatures. However, their CO2 uptake drops at the elevated temperature required for catalytic conversion. This limitation has so far prevented zeolites from emerging as viable alternative to oxide-based DMFs. Incorporating copper into zeolites presents a unique opportunity to overcome these barriers. Copper introduces catalytic sites for CO2 hydrogenation and enhances CO2 affinity through cation–quadrupole and Lewis acid interactions. Yet, Cu-zeolites have not been demonstrated as DFMs under realistic ICCU conditions due to potential deactivation risks at high temperatures. Project ZECO (Zeolite-Copper) will pioneer the development of copper-zeolite DFMs with tailored mesoporosity, stabilized active sites, and anti-sintering properties to achieve integrated CO2 capture and catalytic conversion to methanol in a single material. The project goal is ambitious yet achievable because of established scientific evidence on Cu-zeolites as adsorbents and catalysts, state-of-the-art facilities at the host institution, and complementary expertise between the fellow and supervisor. ZECO will deliver new DFMs, bridging the gap between capture and conversion. Outcomes will include proof-of-concept prototypes for ICCU under practical conditions, high-impact publications, and collaborations. Beyond scientific advances, the fellowship will enhance the fellow’s employability and leadership skills through interdisciplinary training and project management experience.