Author: XiaoLing Xue (Chongqing University) - The production of cement clinker generates substantial CO2 emissions that critically threaten global ecosystems. A pivotal approach to green cement manufacturing lies in the electrochemical conversion of limestone (CaCO3) into cement clinker precursors (Ca(OH)2) using clean electricity. However, the electrochemical synthesis of Ca(OH)2 involves continuous reactions with multiple reactants, necessitating precise separation and recombination of reactants and products to achieve high-purity Ca(OH)2. To address this challenge, we designed a three-chamber reactor, where ion exchange membranes regulate ionic transport pathways to spatially decouple reaction zones and product collection, enabling stable production of high-purity Ca(OH)2 in the middle chamber. The electrochemical reaction zone and the precipitation zone are physically separated, thus effectively preventing electrode contamination and the resulting performance degradation. Concurrently, CO2 released from CaCO3 decomposition undergoes capture and electrochemical conversion into high-value formate. This system effectively avoids carbon emissions from fossil fuels while rationally utilizing the carbon emissions inherent in the feedstock. It achieves the dual objectives of zero-carbon Ca(OH)₂ production and CO₂ valorization, offering advantages including environmental sustainability, mild operating conditions, and a compact design. These features are conducive to industrial scalability and application.
