The system, which operates without the need for external power sources, could be deployed in remote or off-grid areas, enabling on-site fuel production. Unlike conventional carbon capture technologies, which rely on fossil-fuel-derived energy and require costly transportation and storage, this reactor offers a self-sufficient approach that directly converts atmospheric CO2 into usable products.
The study, published in Nature Energy, highlights how the system addresses some of the key concerns surrounding Carbon Capture and Storage (CCS). The UK government recently allocated Pounds 22 billion toward CCS, yet critics argue that it is an energy-intensive and non-circular solution that allows continued reliance on fossil fuels.
"CCS is not only expensive and energy-consuming, but it also enables the continued burning of fossil fuels, which is at the root of the climate crisis," said Professor Erwin Reisner, who led the research. "Additionally, pressurized CO2 stored underground serves no immediate purpose, whereas our system converts CO2 into something valuable."
First author Dr. Sayan Kar, from Cambridge's Yusuf Hamied Department of Chemistry, emphasized the potential benefits of repurposing CO2. "Carbon dioxide is widely regarded as a harmful greenhouse gas, but it can be transformed into useful chemicals without exacerbating global warming," Kar explained.
Inspired by the principles of photosynthesis, Reisner's team specializes in developing technology that harnesses sunlight to convert waste, water, and air into practical fuels and chemicals. The newly developed solar-powered flow reactor utilizes filters to capture CO2 from the air overnight, mimicking a sponge absorbing water. When exposed to sunlight, the captured CO2 is heated, initiating a reaction where infrared radiation aids in its conversion to syngas, a key component in the production of numerous industrial and pharmaceutical products. A mirror concentrates sunlight onto the reactor, enhancing efficiency.
The researchers are now working on refining the process to produce liquid fuels that could power vehicles and aircraft without introducing additional CO2 emissions into the atmosphere.
"At scale, these devices could simultaneously tackle two pressing challenges: reducing atmospheric CO2 and providing a clean alternative to fossil fuels," said Kar. "Rather than viewing CO2 as mere waste, we should recognize its potential as a resource."
The team sees significant promise for this technology in the chemical and pharmaceutical industries, where syngas plays a crucial role in product manufacturing. Efforts are already underway to build a larger version of the reactor, with testing scheduled to begin in the spring.
If successfully scaled, the reactor could enable a decentralized fuel production model, allowing individuals to generate their own energy in remote locations.
"Rather than continuing to extract and burn fossil fuels, we can capture CO2 from the air and repurpose it," said Reisner. "This technology has the potential to drive a circular, sustainable economy-provided we have the political will to support it."
The University of Cambridge is working to commercialize the technology through its commercial enterprise arm, Cambridge Enterprise. The research received support from UK Research and Innovation (UKRI), the European Research Council, the Royal Academy of Engineering, and the Cambridge Trust. Reisner is also a Fellow of St John's College, Cambridge.
Research Report:Direct air capture of CO2 for solar fuels production in flow
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