Catalytic activation of CO2: Use of secondary CO2 for the production of synthesis gas and for methanol synthesis over copper-based zirconia-containing catalysts

Consumption of fossil fuel resources throughout the industrial era has resulted in an enormous increase in carbon dioxide concentration in the atmosphere. Developed countries have committed to reducing the atmospheric load of greenhouse gases and ratified the Kyoto Protocol. Chemical utilization of carbon dioxide captured from large scale stationary sources is one possible pathway to decrease the rate of emissions. Catalysis plays a crucial role in these carbon dioxide utilization reactions. In this paper, the production of synthesis gas from carbon dioxide-containing secondary gases and carbon dioxide hydrogenation to methanol over copper-based zirconia-containing catalysts have been investigated. Pathways of carbon dioxide utilization are outlined, research done on carbon dioxide hydrogenation over copper-based zirconia-containing catalysts is reviewed, and the challenges of these reactions are reported. It is argued that direct utilization of secondary carbon dioxide from industrial sources can be a significant step toward developing sustainable industrial practices and a critical part in sustainable energy strategies. (C) 2009 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.