Direct CO2 Hydrogenation Over Bifunctional Catalysts to Produce Dimethyl Ether

This thesis focuses on the development of two bifunctional catalysts for the hydrogenation of CO₂ into a cleaner fuel, dimethyl ether (DME), using a bench-scale high-pressure reactor. One catalyst, prepared through an oxalate-based method, features smaller particles and a higher number of active sites. It achieves 19% CO₂ conversion, 95% DME selectivity, and a high production rate, while maintaining stable performance over 120 hours. In-situ synchrotron FTIR microspectroscopy confirms the formate pathway and the key role of Brønsted acid sites at an optimal temperature of 200 °C. 3D-printed catalyst structures show strong potential for industrial application. This research supports CO₂ recycling for clean energy and net-zero emissions.