Fossil Energy
Catalysts for Alcohol Production from CO2 and CO
Related Patents: 7,879,749 ; 7,592,291 ; 8,226,909
Contact: David R. Anderson
Phone: (208) 526-0837
E-mail: Send E-mail
The Idaho National Laboratory has produced multi-functional catalysts for selective CO and CO2 hydrogenation to alcohols. This novel catalyst allows for higher activity than commercial catalysts and can be synthesized to produce methanol and higher alcohols such as ethanol, propanol and butanol in a single process. Current commercial catalysts have poor low temperature activity and are only applicable to carbon monoxide-rich feedstocks. In addition, literature searches indicate that no catalysts have been commercialized for hydro-genation of carbon dioxide-rich feedstocks. The catalyst preparation method developed results in stable catalysts with unique morphologies and surface properties. The technology is patent pending and INL is seeking non-federal partners who are interested in further studying or licensing and commercializing the technology.