WARF TECHNOLOGIES

UW-Madison researchers have developed an improved electrochemical valorization strategy that leverages an electrocatalyst capable of carrying out two-electron oxygen reduction reactions (2e- ORR). The electrocatalyst, embodied as a cathode, is a metal chalcogenide (e.g., NiSe2 or  PdSe2) was chosen based on its selectivity towards acidic hydrogen peroxide electrosynthesis. In practice, their approach is realized as an electrochemical cell that comprises a counter electrode (anode) and an electrolyte. The electrolyte includes oxygen, hydrogen peroxide, or hydroxyl radicals as well as a regenerable metal ion, and a biomass derived feedstock. When voltage is applied, the biomass derived feedstock (e.g., glycerol) is oxidized to a desirable C1-3 oxidation product. Additional features and alternative embodiments includes an acidic anolyte, an anode immersed in the anolyte, and a second biomass-derived feedstock. The result is a highly efficient valorization system that requires minimal external energy and is generalizable to a variety of biomass-derived feedstocks.  

For More Information About the Inventors

• Song Jin

Tech Fields

• Clean Technology : Biobased & renewable chemicals & fuels
• Materials & Chemicals : Catalysts
• Materials & Chemicals : Synthesis