CO2: from waste to resource for methanol-based processes

This paper reports on research aiming at developing sustainable processes for the production of methanol (CH3OH) and dimethyl carbonate (DMC, (CH3)2CO3) using carbon dioxide (CO2) as a raw material. Using carbon dioxide as a raw material has several advantages; it is non-toxic, in abundant supply, and promises innovative routes to the production of commodity chemicals. Methanol and dimethyl carbonate are important products and feedstocks of the chemical industry. Methanol is produced commercially from synthesis gas, but it is also possible to use carbon dioxide as a feedstock. Conventional production of dimethyl carbonate involves the use of toxic phosgene or carbon monoxide, while the met…