Maximum and Comparative Efficiency Calculations for Integrated Capture and Electrochemical Conversion of CO ₂

CO₂ as a C1 feedstock is receiving increasing attention, but it typically exists in dilute or impure streams. The capture and conversion of CO₂ to fuels or chemicals using carbon-neutral energy mitigates carbon emissions when CO₂ is captured from point sources and results in net or negative carbon emissions when CO₂ is obtained by direct air capture. Additionally, CO₂ capture and conversion steps are typically viewed as separate processes that optimize either capture and concentration or catalytic conversions of pure streams of CO₂.