STEP (Solar Thermal Electrochemical Production) of Energetic Molecules: A synergy of photovoltaics and solar thermal to form a new, higher efficiency solar energy process

Abstract

STEP, Solar Thermal Electrochemical Production, provides an advance in solar energy conversion efficiency through the use of the full solar spectrum to generate energy rich chemicals. The process captures solar energy with conversion efficiency greater than that of photovoltaics, and rather than electricity, produces the chemical products needed by society. This original process is derived and demonstrated for the solar production of energetically rich chemicals, including iron, and hydrogen fuel without the evolution of carbon dioxide, and to proactively convert and capture anthropogenic CO2 generated in burning fossil fuels. The STEP process distinguishes radiation that is energy sufficient to drive photovoltaic charge transfer, and applies all excess energy to heat and decrease the energy of endothermic electrolysis reactions. Energy sufficient, visible, sunlight drives photovoltaic charge transfer, and available heat, infrared sunlight, and excess visible sunlight, heats, and decreases the energy of, an electrolysis reaction.