ReNEW-CO2: Development of novel rhenium-based catalysts for industrial conversion of CO2 to methanol

• Grant number: 24/17897-8
• Support Opportunities: Scholarships in Brazil - Doctorate (Direct)
• Start date: August 01, 2025
• End date: July 31, 2028
• Field of knowledge: Physical Sciences and Mathematics - Chemistry - Inorganic Chemistry
• Principal Investigator: Pedro Miguel Vidinha Gomes
• Grantee: Julyanne Dias Leite
• Host Institution: Instituto de Química (IQ). Universidade de São Paulo (USP). São Paulo , SP, Brazil
• Company: Universidade de São Paulo (USP). Escola Politécnica (EP)
• Associated research grant: 20/15230-5 - Research Centre for Greenhouse Gas Innovation - RCG2I, AP.PCPE

Abstract

This doctoral project proposes the synthesis of a new catalyst for the conversion of carbon dioxide (CO2) into methanol, using rhenium oxide (ReOx) as a structural matrix, which has demonstrated high efficiency in this process. The main objective is to improve the selectivity and efficiency of the catalyst, overcoming the limitations of the industrial Cu/ZnO/Al2O3 (CZA) catalyst. To this end, metals such as Cu, Au, Al and Zn will be incorporated into the ReOx composition, with the process operating in a flow regime under supercritical conditions.In addition, alternative support options for titania P25 will be investigated, evaluating the reaction behavior in different compositions. The catalyst will be pelletized to allow its application in pilot plant reactors, and a comprehensive study will be conducted on the formulation of the pastes, exploring additives and supports that influence the reactivity and stability of the catalyst.The research therefore seeks to optimize synthesis conditions and solve problems related to the deactivation and low selectivity of current catalysts, with a view to efficient industrial application in the conversion of CO2 to methanol.