Understanding double perovskite BCNF as a CO2 splitting catalyst for industrial decarbonisation

Abstract

The foundation industry, particularly the steel sector, is one of the major sources of global CO₂ emissions, with each ton of steel produced using iron ores contributing approximately 1.4 (direct reduced iron-based process) to 2 (blast furnace-based process) tons of CO₂, with ironmaking accounting for approximately 70% of these emission. Here, we present a study on the potential of using a double perovskite, Ba₂Ca_0.66Nb_0.34FeO_6-δ (BCNF), as a CO₂ splitting catalyst that converts CO₂ into carbon monoxide (CO), a reducing agent in ironmaking, which can be reintegrated into the ironmaking process to enable ‘in-process’ decarbonisation and facilitate close-loop carbon recirculation. The study combines thermodynamic modelling, molecular dynamics simulations, material characterisation, and lab-scale experimental system design, demonstrating the efficiency and practicality of the use of BCNF for CO₂ emission reduction at a moderate temperature range. Simultaneous Thermal Analysis and COMSOL-based simulations were employed to optimise reactor design, maximising CO yield. An economic analysis further supports the scalability of this technology for decarbonising the steelmaking industry, which bears significance with the broader applicability to other foundation industrial sectors, including non-ferrous metal smelting, cement, glass, ceramics, and chemicals. This innovation offers a promising pathway towards sustainable industrial practices and contributes to global efforts to address climate change challenges.

Graphical Abstract