How to separate CO2 into C and O2

[chemisttree]

How about the Boudouard reaction as a second step:

1. 2 CO₂ -> 2 CO + O₂
2. 2 CO -> CO₂ + C

Sure, if your goal is to produce carbon. The carbon would likely foul the catalyst though and since the Martian atmosphere has plenty of CO2 already, there is no advantage to the second step IMO. The design of the reactor might need to be such that this reaction is prevented from happening.

 

[DrStupid]

Sure, if your goal is to produce carbon.

According to the title of this thread it is.

 

[chemisttree]

According to the title of this thread it is.

Of course it is but you were responding to my post which featured links where the final carbon-containing species was CO (as I indicated).

 

[DrDu]

In radiocarbon dating one reduces carbon dioxide e.g. with iron and hydrogen gas to elemental carbon. You could freeze out the water formed in that process from the hydrogen stream and separate it by electrolysis. Net result would be the analysis of carbon dioxide into carbon and oxygen.

 

[DrStupid]

Of course it is but you were responding to my post which featured links where the final carbon-containing species was CO (as I indicated).

And because CO is only half the way to carbon I suggested a second step to complete the separation of CO₂ into C and O₂.

 

[chemisttree]

And because CO is only half the way to carbon I suggested a second step to complete the separation of CO₂ into C and O₂.

Doh! You're right. That would address the OP's original question.