Czech researchers develop nano‑sandwich photocathode for solar CO₂‑to‑ethanol conversion

Czech researchers at Charles University in Prague have announced a breakthrough in solar‑driven carbon capture, developing an advanced photocathode that converts atmospheric carbon dioxide into pure ethanol using sunlight. The work, led by Dr. Pavla Eliášová, was published in the peer‑reviewed journal *Advanced Energy Materials*.

The new photocathode addresses a long‑standing challenge in aqueous photoelectrochemical systems: material degradation. By employing a novel composite architecture, the device maintains structural integrity while achieving a record conversion efficiency for CO₂ reduction to ethanol. This high efficiency, coupled with the stability of the material, represents a significant step toward practical, sustainable production of green fuels.

The research demonstrates that solar‑assisted CO₂ conversion can be both efficient and durable, offering a viable pathway for producing renewable ethanol at scale. If further developed, the technology could help reduce greenhouse‑gas emissions while providing a clean, carbon‑neutral fuel source for transportation and industry.