Catalytic conversion of CO_x to higher alcohols

Higher alcohols have a large economic value and are important compounds in the chemical, pharmaceutical and energy sectors. Currently, most higher alcohols are produced by sugar fermentation or from petroleum-derived alkenes. The direct synthesis of higher alcohols from carbon oxides (CO and CO₂) would comprise a environmentally friendly and versatile alternative, considering the increasing production of green H₂ from water and the global target of reducing CO₂ concentrations in the atmosphere. My investigations aim to develop new families of heterogeneous catalysis for catalytic conversion of CO_x to higher alcohols.