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Study on solar ultraviolet-visible spectrum carbon sequestration based on photochemical-biological synergy

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  • Qian, Cuncun
  • Li, Ming-Jia
  • Wang, Rui-Long

Abstract

Solar-driven CO2 reduction technologies are vital pathways to carbon neutrality. This study introduces a suspension-based photocatalytic-biological hybrid system designed to improve solar energy utilization and CO2 conversion efficiency. The system employs an α-TiO2 photocatalyst with a narrow bandgap (2.84 eV), high surface area (∼349.98 m2/g), and numerous catalytic active sites for effective UV-light absorption below 436.6 nm. It also integrates the photosynthetic microalga, which absorbs visible light in the wavelength range of 400–700 nm for biological carbon sequestration. This complementary design enables simultaneous absorption of different solar wavelengths, achieving UV–Vis-spectrum sunlight utilization. Under simulated solar irradiation, the system achieved a TCEN of 9.58 mmol g−1 h−1 and a CO2 conversion rate of 2.46 mmol g−1 h−1, exceeding the performance of the standalone α-TiO2 system by over 14 times. The hybrid system offers a practical approach for solar-driven CO2 fixation, overcoming spectral absorption limitations in traditional catalysts and providing a new strategy for efficient solar energy conversion.

Suggested Citation

  • Qian, Cuncun & Li, Ming-Jia & Wang, Rui-Long, 2025. "Study on solar ultraviolet-visible spectrum carbon sequestration based on photochemical-biological synergy," Energy, Elsevier, vol. 334(C).
    • Handle: RePEc:eee:energy:v:334:y:2025:i:c:s0360544225033742
    DOI: 10.1016/j.energy.2025.137732
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