Global efforts to mitigate climate change and reduce CO 2 emissions have inspired research in artificial photosynthesis, which mimics nature’s ability to convert sunlight, water, and carbon dioxide into valuable fuels and chemicals. A research team led by Prof. Baowen Zhou and executed primarily by Dr. Muhammad Salman Nasir has developed an innovative Zn-decorated GaN nanowire catalyst . This catalyst achieves high-efficiency conversion of CO 2 and H 2 O into methane (CH 4 ) and hydrogen peroxide (H 2 O 2 ) under light irradiation, offering a practical solution for sustainable fuel production.
The catalyst achieved a CH 4 production rate of 189 mmol g – 1 h – 1 with 93.6% selectivity and maintained activity for over 80 hours without degradation. This system offers dual benefits: fuel generation (CH 4 ) for energy storage and H 2 O 2 synthesis for industrial applications. Mechanistic studies revealed that the interaction between Zn nanoclusters and GaN nanowires enhances the formation of the formate (HCOO*) intermediate, improving efficiency and selectivity.
This research provides a pathway toward carbon neutrality by integrating renewable energy with fuel production and chemical synthesis. It also opens new possibilities for utilizing CO 2 emissions and converting them into value-added products, contributing to global climate goals.
Science Bulletin