A groundbreaking discovery by McGill University researchers is among the top scientific advances of 2024, according to Québec Science magazine.
The scientists developed a novel method to transform two greenhouse gases—methane and carbon dioxide—into valuable chemicals using sunlight. This innovation could help reduce emissions and provide a more sustainable way to produce certain industrial products.
The finding was featured in the magazine’s annual Top 10 list recognizing the most impactful scientific achievements in Quebec.
Chao-Jun Li, Distinguished James McGill Professor in the Department of Chemistry led the research team.
The key to the process lies in a unique catalyst made from gold, palladium and gallium nitride. When exposed to sunlight, it triggers a reaction that produces green methanol, with carbon monoxide as a byproduct. Both products are highly valued in the chemical and energy sectors, the researchers said.
Unlike current methods, which rely on less sustainable forms of energy, this process uses only sunlight. As well, previously discovered transformation methods relied on the use of hydrogen, water and/or hydrogen peroxide; the McGill researchers’ method does not require these oxidants and reductants, avoiding undesirable byproducts.
Given that methane and carbon dioxide together accounted for more than 90 per cent of global emissions in 2021, the discovery offers a promising path toward reaching net-zero emissions and mitigating the impact of climate change. More broadly, it demonstrates the potential of innovative science to tackle global challenges, turning environmental problems into opportunities.
This is not the first time that Li, known as one of the world’s leading pioneers in green chemistry, has been honoured by the magazine. In 2010, Li and his colleagues earned a spot on the coveted list for discovering a nanotech catalyst that uses magnetic nanoparticles to provide an environmentally friendly way to remove toxic heavy metals from chemical processes.