Valorization of niobium and tantalum for the production of low carbon intensity fuels: water electrolysis and CO2 conversion into value added products

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Electrolysis is a process in which a direct current is used to perform a non-spontaneous chemical reaction. It is possible to produce hydrogen (H2) from the electrolysis of water without any greenhouse gas emissions (called "green H2") when electricity is produced from renewable sources. It can also be a way to reduce the accumulation of CO2 in the atmosphere and to valorize industrial CO2 by converting it into high value-added chemicals such as formate salts. Electrodes and catalysts are at the core of electrolysis technologies, but significant research efforts in advanced materials are needed to reduce the costs of these technologies, to improve their efficiency and durability. This research project focuses on the development of new Ta/Nb-based catalysts for water electrolysis and CO2 reduction to formate. It will train four PhD students, one postdoctoral research fellow and one undergraduate student.If successful, the two companies involved in the project will have new avenues for their products which will strengthen their positioning in the green hydrogen industry and in the decarbonization of energy systems. In addition, it secure Quebec and Canada's positions in the manufacturing and energy sectors through the training of skilled labour and through access to a secure source of raw materials. Finally, it will contribute to improve the air quality through the decarbonization of the economy and energy systems.