A review on the valorization of CO2. Focusing on the thermodynamics and catalyst design studies of the direct synthesis of dimethyl ether

The direct synthesis of dimethyl ether (DME) on bifunctional catalysts is highly attractive for valorizing CO2 and syngas derived from biomass gasification a key process to reduce greenhouse gas emissions. DME economy (conventionally based its use as fuel) arouses growing interest, in parallel with the development different routes conversion into hydrocarbons (fuels chemicals) H2 production. This review, after analyzing catalytic processes valorization CO2, focuses studies regarding thermodynamics advances new catalysts. Compared methanol two stages, carrying out reactions dehydration same reactor favors formation co-fed syngas. Starting experience feedstocks, numerous have been studied. first were physical mixtures or composites prepared by extrusion (CuO-ZnO carriers promoters) (mainly γ-Al2O3 HZSM-5 zeolite). performance has progressively improved modifications composition properties components upturn activity (lower hydrogenation than CO) selectivity, minimize deactivation coke sintering metallic function. core-shell configuration catalyst allows physically separating environments DME. confinement facilitates extent both improves stability catalyst, since synergies mechanisms are eliminated.