Work

Selective Production of Glycolate through Photoelectrochemical Ethylene Glycol Valorization over an Earth‐Abundant Photoanode

Year: 2026

Type: article

Abstract: Photoelectrochemical (PEC) production of highly valuable chemicals, such as glycolate (GLA) from ethylene glycol (EG), remains a challenge. Here, Zr‐doped α ‐Fe 2 O 3 (Zr: α ‐Fe 2 O 3 ) is successfully synthesized via chemical bath deposition, followed by hybrid microwave heating and demonstrated as an earth‐abundant photoelectrode for selective GLA production. By tuning the EG concentration and operating potential, and using the optimized Zr: α ‐Fe 2 O 3 photoanode, a faradaic efficiency of approximately 70% for GLA production can be achieved. The PEC EG valorization routes and mechanisms over Zr: α ‐Fe 2 O 3 photoelectrode are also proposed. Finally, an integrated photovoltaic‐PEC EG valorization system is established for the cogeneration of H 2 and value‐added chemicals, achieving product formation of 429 and 142 mmol m −2 for H 2 and GLA, respectively, within 4 h of operation. This work first demonstrates that an earth‐abundant photoanode can be used for selective PEC production of GLA via EG valorization and provides different perspectives on PEC‐based organic valorization.

Source: Small Structures

DOI: 10.1002/sstr.202500888

Authors: Yu‐An Lee, Fitri Nur Indah Sari, Te‐Liang Liu, Chia‐Yu Lin, Yi‐Hsuan Lai

Institution: National Cheng Kung University

Language: English

Topic: Iron oxide chemistry and applications

Subfield: Renewable Energy, Sustainability and the Environment

Field: Energy

Domain: Physical Sciences

SDGs: Affordable and clean energy, Responsible consumption and production

Open Access status: gold

Estimated APC paid: $4,110