Nano-sandwich photocathode improves solar conversion of CO₂ into ethanol
Researchers at Charles University have developed a 'nano-sandwich' photocathode that enables the efficient conversion of CO2 into ethanol using sunlight. This innovation addresses the durability issues that previously hindered cuprous oxide-based solar reactors.
Why it matters
This breakthrough represents a significant step toward sustainable green fuel production and carbon capture technology.
edited by Lisa Lock , reviewed by Robert Egan
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Add as preferred source Schematic illustration of the proposed band alignment and charge-transfer pathways in the FTO/Cu 2 O/TiO 2 -MXene photocathode for PEC CO 2 -to-ethanol conversion. Credit: Advanced Energy Materials (2026). DOI: 10.1002/aenm.71469 Czech researchers at Charles University in Prague, led by Pavla Eliášová, have developed an advanced photocathode that helps convert the greenhouse gas carbon dioxide into pure ethanol using sunlight. The new technology solves a long-standing problem of material degradation in water, achieves record conversion efficiency and opens the way toward sustainable production of green fuels. The paper is published in the journal Advanced Energy Materials .
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