A team of researchers from China and New Zealand have developed a new electrolysis system that can convert CO2 into formic acid using enhanced electrolysis methods, according to a study (pdf) published in Nature. The new tech could have implications for carbon capture and utilization and could also be used to help decarbonize carbon-intensive industries, the South China Morning Post reported, citing an interview with the lead researcher Xia Baoyu.

How does it work? The new method can directly convert CO2 into formic acid, a chemical used in agriculture and fuel cells. The electrochemical reduction of carbon dioxide — referred to as CO2RR — involves converting CO2 into reduced chemical compounds using electrical energy. The new system achieved a record performance of 93% efficiency with an ability to operate for 5k hours, which was a main challenge for conventional conversion systems.

What are the researchers doing differently? The new study engineered a proton-exchange membrane (PEM) electrolyzer that facilitates the reaction that converts hydrogen molecules into protons at the anode while simultaneously producing formic acid from CO2 at the cathode, according to the research briefing. This energy-efficient approach helps prevent the formation of harmful hydrogen peroxide during the process which could degrade or destroy the PEM.

The study also uses recycled batteries in the process: Researchers found that using spent lead acid batteries (SLABs) to source the catalyst increased the efficiency and stability of the system while only providing a recycling opportunity. This catalyst is “environmentally sustainable and can be industrially produced on kilogram and even ton scales,” the briefing added.

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