Rational design of catalytic systems for CO₂ valorization to liquid fuels

Utilization of carbon dioxide for methanol and higher alcohol synthesis is an attractive way to produce essential chemical commodities and energy carriers, a step towards decarbonization of the energy sector to meet crucial climate targets. My research explores old and new catalyst families for CO₂ hydrogenation, with accurate catalytic testing, in depth characterization and modelling providing insights to develop structure-mechanism-performance relations and guiding further screening and optimization. Ultimately, improved fundamental and common understanding of methanol and higher alcohol synthesis shall bridge the gap between their currently distinct design principles, from the nanostructural to the process level.