Funding will support the project team's small-scale research and development of a new method of methanol production that orchestrates chemical reactions on a catalyst surface using modulated light.
Office of NEPA Policy and Compliance
April 2, 2026
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Funding will support the project team's small-scale research and development of a new method of methanol production that orchestrates chemical reactions on a catalyst surface using modulated light. Specifically, the project team will (1) develop, test, and validate catalyst composition and function, (2) develop and train a machine learning model to support analysis and prediction of photocatalyst results, (3) build a bench-scale photoreactor and test and validate initial methanol production outputs to meet identified targets, (4) run photoreactor production for 24 hours to meet final methanol outputs and operation targets, and (5) conduct a techno-economic analysis and life cycle assessment for next phase development. If successful, this project will result in more efficient, higher production outputs of methanol compared to conventional methods, ultimately improving energy efficiency and reducing dependence on foreign energy, thereby increasing U.S. energy security.