New system produces fuel from Atmospheric Co2.
Scientists
have developed a plant that uses carbon dioxide in the air to produce renewable
fuels and chemicals, an advance that could help reduce greenhouse gas emissions
and reliance on fossil fuels.The unique Soletair plant, developed by
Lappeenranta University of Technology (LUT) and VTT Technical Research Centre
of Finland, aims to produce 200 litres of fuels and other hydrocarbons for
research purposes.
The
one-of-a-kind demo plant has the entire process chain, from solar power
generation to hydrocarbon production, is in the same place. The demo plant
comprises four separate units: a solar power plant; equipment for separating
carbon dioxide and water from the air; a section that uses electrolysis to
produce hydrogen; and synthesis equipment for producing a crude-oil substitute
from carbon dioxide and hydrogen.
Pilot-scale
plant units have been designed for distributed, small-scale production.
Production capacity can be increased by adding more units. “The concept we are
exploring is an example of how the chemical industry could be electrified in
the future. The burning of fossil fuels must end by 2050, but people will
continue to need some hydrocarbons,” said Jero Ahola of LUT.
“The
result will be multi-sectoral industrial integration. Finnish industry’s
expertise in this area is being reinforced by collaboration,” said Pekka Simell
of VTT. After the piloting phase, synthesis units will be used in a number of
projects over the coming years. It will provide a platform for conducting
research with international companies. Information gathered during the project
will be useful for the commercialisation of the technologies.
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