Electrochemical carbon dioxide reduction (CO₂R) presents a promising strategy for turning CO₂ into valuable fuels and chemicals. This project aims to advance the reduction of CO₂ into carbon monoxide (CO) by utilizing silver-based gas diffusion electrodes (GDEs) paired with ion-conducting polymers. These advancements are designed to enhance selectivity and stability, achieving high CO selectivity and significant current densities that align with industrial needs. Building on previous successes, where custom GDE systems demonstrated high CO selectivity at notable current densities within a carefully engineered microenvironment, this project focuses on further optimizing the electrodes. By integrating ionomers, we aim to boost ion transport and overall electrode efficiency, paving the way for even greater advancements.

Comprehensive electrochemical testing is conducted in controlled lab settings to thoroughly assess the performance of the developed GDE systems. This includes an in-depth investigation into how ionomer integration influences the wettability and ion transport characteristics of the electrodes. To further understand the three-dimensional configuration of the electrodes, focused ion beam scanning electron microscopy (FIB-SEM) is employed. This is complemented by theoretical approaches such as the Thin-film Flooded Agglomerate (TFFA) model to explore local CO₂ concentrations in the electrolyte and the resulting reaction dynamics. A core component of this endeavour is the collaboration with the Chair of Materials Process Engineering at the University of Bayreuth's Faculty of Engineering. This partnership utilizes advanced experimental and modelling tools to optimize the distribution of ionomers within the GDE framework in order to boost the CO selectivity at the highest possible current density.

Our ultimate goal is to develop a scalable solution that not only reduces CO₂ emissions but also offers a sustainable method for producing high-demand chemical feedstocks, setting new benchmarks for industrial application in the future.