catalysts

The team used electrocatalysis, a type of chemical reaction initiated by electron transfers to and from reactants on surfaces of catalysts, to convert carbon dioxide into biocompatible intermediates, such as acetate and ethanol.

"The combination of experimental results and theoretical insights provides a comprehensive picture of how magnetic fields can enhance catalytic performance," added Li, "This can serve as guidance when designing new catalysts in the future."

The catalysts required for the reaction — sodium or tungsten — are readily available and inexpensive, they say, and early tests show the process is likely scalable at industrial levels.

However, a deeper understanding of copper-based CO2 reducing catalysts is needed to engineer systems that are durable and efficiently produce a desired carbon product rather than off-target products.

"We've uncovered interesting interactions between the photocatalyst and the enzyme," said Yang, whose group is studying how to further improve the interactions between the two catalysts.