From CO₂ to DME: Catalytic advances, challenges, and alternatives to conventional gas-phase routes

Abstract

Dimethyl ether (DME) is gaining attention as both a biofuel and electro-fuel (e-fuel) due to its high volumetric energy density (0.16 kg H2/l) and rich hydrogen content, making it a promising energy carrier. Global DME production is around 10 million tons annually, primarily derived from synthesis gas. This process typically requires high temperatures above 250°C and elevated pressures, involving two catalysts and multiple stages of separation and distillation. A major breakthrough in DME production would involve utilizing CO2 and H2 mixtures under milder conditions in a single-step process. Such advancements could create a circular DME synthesis-consumption cycle, leading to significant reductions in greenhouse gas emissions. This work explores recent developments in both direct and indirect DME production methods, with a focus on enhancing CO2-to-DME processes. It highlights the design of highly active, durable, and selective catalysts, as well as scalable synthesis methods that eliminate the need for expensive separation and distillation stages.

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Article information

Article type
Review Article
Submitted
14 Apr 2025
Accepted
11 Aug 2025
First published
20 Aug 2025
This article is Open Access
Creative Commons BY license

Catal. Sci. Technol., 2025, Accepted Manuscript

From CO₂ to DME: Catalytic advances, challenges, and alternatives to conventional gas-phase routes

E. Kraleva, U. Armbruster, M. L. Saladino, F. Giacalone, T. Mizugaki and I. S. Pieta, Catal. Sci. Technol., 2025, Accepted Manuscript , DOI: 10.1039/D5CY00462D

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