Five-metal 2D catalysts turn CO₂ into CO without extra energy

Researchers have proposed new two-dimensional catalysts that could convert carbon dioxide into carbon monoxide without requiring additional electrical energy, potentially offering a more efficient route for recycling captured CO₂ into industrial feedstocks. The findings were published in npj Computational Materials. The study, led by the Indian Institute of Technology Gandhinagar, combined two previously separate strategies: MBenes, ultra-thin metal-boron sheets, and high-entropy materials with multiple metals. Out of 18 viable compositions screened computationally, three five-metal MBene catalysts stood out for their low energy requirements, with metals like chromium, zirconium, and hafnium dividing tasks to activate CO₂ conversion. The resulting carbon monoxide could serve as a raw material for fuels and chemicals, such as syngas. Researchers noted that experimental synthesis and testing are needed next, while the work aligns with India's carbon capture goals toward net-zero emissions by 2070.