Electrochemical Processes for Sustainable: Chemical Manufacturing

The escalating atmospheric CO2 levels underscore an urgent need for decarbonization. When powered by renewable energy, electrochemical processes offer significant opportunities to reduce carbon footprints within the chemical manufacturing sector. This chapter delves into the integration of electrochemical strategies in chemical production, particularly emphasizing the conversion of greenhouse gases and non-fossil feedstocks into valuable chemicals and fuels. Key discussions focus on the electrochemical reduction of CO2 to chemicals and fuels such as syngas, methane, ethanol, and ethylene, the electrochemical transformation of nitrogen into fertilizers, and the electrochemical pathways for biomass valorization. The chapter highlights recent advancements in catalyst design and electrolyzer engineering, analyzing the critical challenges of scaling these processes from laboratory to industrial production, alongside potential solutions. Furthermore, we explore the opportunities electrochemical technologies offer in reducing CO2 emissions in the production of commodity chemicals with substantial carbon footprints. Through a detailed analysis, this chapter aims to illuminate the potential of electrochemical technologies to revolutionize the industrial sector, support sustainable practices, and contribute to a carbon-neutral future.