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From concept to deployment: A review of carbon-to-methanol pathways for e-methanol

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  • Li, Cenxi
  • You, Shi
  • Cui, Xiaoti

Abstract

This review investigates the Carbon-to-Methanol (CTM) pathway for e-methanol production, in which captured CO2 is directly hydrogenated with renewable hydrogen. CTM is gaining attention as a scalable route for converting renewable energy into liquid fuels, yet its system design remains loosely defined. The absence of a clear design framework has led to diverse implementations, each shaped by local energy conditions, carbon sources, and integration strategies. This diversity makes it difficult to evaluate performance or guide replication. To address this, the review systematically analyzes the key design dimensions of CTM systems, including power supply, electrolyzer selection, CO2 sourcing, reactor configuration, and integration strategy. By mapping these components and their associated challenges, the review provides a structured overview of how CTM systems are currently implemented and highlights the diversity of approaches that shape their technical and operational characteristics.

Suggested Citation

  • Li, Cenxi & You, Shi & Cui, Xiaoti, 2026. "From concept to deployment: A review of carbon-to-methanol pathways for e-methanol," Applied Energy, Elsevier, vol. 408(C).
    • Handle: RePEc:eee:appene:v:408:y:2026:i:c:s0306261926000814
    DOI: 10.1016/j.apenergy.2026.127429
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