Development of a photocatalytic method to convert CO2 into formic acid with fulvic acid complex

Abstract

Increasing levels of carbon dioxide (CO2) due to natural and anthropogenic activities have led to alarming concerns of global warming. Photocatalytic conversion of CO2 to formic acid (FA) is speculated to provide a long-term solution for CO2 remediation and the production of green energy. Herein, we report the conversion method of CO2 to FA using water, light, and organic RRR catalyst at room temperature in a photocatalytic RK-X reactor. A total of seven experiments were conducted and observed to study the effectiveness of the reaction. The experiments achieved 8.47 g/L of FA concentrate. This photocatalytic conversion of CO2 into FA represents a promising approach to addressing global warming and providing carbon negative hydrogen as an answer to fossil fuel problems. Another possible application of this study is to provide sustainable energy on Mars, where water, light, and CO2 are all available for the reaction.