Insight into the synthesis of alcohols and acids in plasma-driven conversion of CO2 and CH4 over copper-based catalysts

Direct conversion of CO2 and CH4 into value-added oxygenates under mild conditions is highly desirable since it has great potential to deliver a sustainable low-carbon economy and a carbon-neutral ecosystem. However, tuning the distribution of oxygenates in this process remains a major challenge. Here, the electronic structure and acidic properties of copper-based catalysts were exploited as strategies to tune the distribution of oxygenates (alcohols and acids) in the plasma-catalytic conversion of CO2 and CH4 at a reaction temperature of 60 degrees C and atmospheric pressure. We use support, on which copper is anchored, to regulate the distribution of Cu2+ and Cu+ in the Cu-based catalysts. Comprehensive characterization of the catalysts together with the reaction performances reveals that Cu2+ species are favorable to the formation of alcohols, whereas Cu+ species are critical to enhancing acetic acid production. Furthermore, the Brunsted acid sites of HZSM-5 significantly improved the selectivity of acetic acid, while the synergy of isolated Cu+ center and Brunsted acid sites, developed via Cu-exchange HZSM-5, exhibits potential for acetic acid formation. Finally, possible pathways for the formation of alcohols and acetic acid have been discussed. This work provides new insights into the design of highly selective catalysts for tuning the distribution of alcohols and acids in the plasma-catalytic conversion of CO2 and CH4 to oxygenates.