Valorization of Niobium and Tantalum to Produce Low-Carbon Fuels: Water Electrolysis and CO₂ Conversion into valuable products

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Electrolysis is a process in which a direct electric current is used to drive a non-spontaneous chemical reaction.

Hydrogen (H₂) can be produced from water electrolysis with no greenhouse gas emissions (referred to as “green hydrogen”) when the electricity is generated from renewable sources. Electrolysis can also contribute to reducing the accumulation of CO₂ in the atmosphere and to the valorization of industrial CO₂ by converting it into high-value chemical products such as formate salts. Electrodes and catalysts are central components of electrolysis technologies; however, significant research efforts in advanced materials are required to reduce costs and to improve the efficiency and durability of these technologies. This research project, led by Prof. Ana Tavares at INRS, focuses on the development of new Ta/Nb-based catalysts for water electrolysis and for the electrochemical reduction of CO₂ to formate.

This project will enable Niobay to identify new applications for Nb- and Ta-based materials extracted from its deposits, particularly as catalysts for water electrolysis, and will allow Electro Carbon to develop a proprietary catalyst for CO₂ reduction. In addition, the project will: (i) strengthen Québec’s position in the manufacturing and energy sectors through the training of a highly qualified workforce and access to a secure supply of raw materials; and (ii) improve air quality through the decarbonization of the economy and energy systems.

A significant number of highly qualified personnel (HQP)—including four PhD students, one postdoctoral researcher, and one undergraduate student—will be trained as part of this project. This training will prepare them to become key contributors to the future development of Québec’s advanced materials, energy, and environmental technology industries.