Improving the efficiency of high-temperature electrolysis of carbon dioxide in a solid oxide cell

This work focuses on the development of a bespoke rig which allows for the simultaneous use of non-thermal plasmas (NTPs), oscillating gas flow via a Desai-Zimmerman Fluidic Oscillator (DZFO) and a Solid Oxide Cell (SOC) to create a highly efficient energy conversion device to facilitate the reduction of CO2 to CO. Both fluidic oscillation and NTPs have the potential to reduce resistances in a SOC, key to furthering their commercialisation. The potential role of NTPs in improving the kinetics and efficiency of reactions relevant to CO2 reduction, such as the dissociation of CO2, is presented. Performance improvements using a rapidly oscillating gas flow, provided by the DZFO, to minimise concentration polarisation resistance by disrupting boundary layer formation and increasing overall efficiency are also discussed. The intersection of these technologies provide a path for a paradigm shift in the ability to convert waste CO2 into high value feedstock using renewable energy.