Seeing CO2 Become Graphite: Real-Time Insights from Molten-Salt Electrolysis
Using operando Raman microscopy, researchers watched CO2 electrolysis in molten salts convert carbon dioxide into solid carbon (graphite) via a two-step pathway with a peroxide intermediate; the form of carbon deposited depends on the cathode (nickel, Inconel, gold, tungsten). The study, published in Nature Communications by Ratso et al., suggests CO2-derived graphite could supply battery materials and, if powered by renewables, achieve a negative CO2 balance, but it’s not a climate solution on its own and will require further optimization.
