Electrochemical Conversion of CO2 into Negative Electrode Materials for Li-Ion Batteries

The capture and electrochemical conversion of CO2 in molten LiCl-Li2CO3 salt is proposed. By using an inert platinum anode and a tungsten cathode, the CO32- could be easily converted into carbon and oxygen gas, as well as O2-. The released O2- was responsible for the further capture of CO2. Also, CO2 could be effectively absorbed in such chloride melts with a low content of oxygen ion dissolved. In addition, the produced carbon displayed good performance as a negative electrode material for Li-ion batteries, suggesting that the process is an environmentally friendly way to convert CO2 into energy-storage materials.