Engineers develop an efficient process to make fuel from carbon dioxide

Introduction

The search for efficient methods to extract carbon dioxide (CO2) from the air or power plant exhaust and convert it into a useful substance is a global endeavor. One promising approach is the conversion of CO2 into a stable fuel that can replace fossil fuels in certain applications. However, most existing conversion processes suffer from low carbon efficiency or produce fuels that are difficult to handle, toxic, or flammable.

The Development of an Efficient Conversion Process

Researchers at MIT and Harvard University have developed an efficient process to convert CO2 into formate, a liquid or solid material that can be used as a fuel to power a fuel cell and generate electricity. Potassium or sodium formate, which is already produced at industrial scales and commonly used as a de-icer, is nontoxic, nonflammable, easy to store and transport, and can remain stable in ordinary steel tanks for extended periods.

Process Description

The new process, developed by MIT and Harvard researchers, involves the capture and electrochemical conversion of CO2 into solid formate powder. This powder is then used in a fuel cell to produce electricity. The entire process has been successfully demonstrated at a small laboratory scale and is expected to be scalable for emissions-free heat and power in individual homes, as well as industrial or grid-scale applications.

Advantages over Existing Approaches

Unlike other methods of converting CO2 into fuel, the new process achieves a conversion efficiency of over 90% and eliminates the need for an inefficient heating step. By first converting CO2 into a liquid metal bicarbonate, the process can then electrochemically convert it into liquid potassium or sodium formate using low-carbon electricity. The resulting highly concentrated solution can be dried to produce a stable solid powder that can be stored in ordinary steel tanks for years without significant loss.

Optimization and Efficiency

The research team made significant improvements to the process, resulting in a highly efficient conversion system. Careful design of membrane materials and their configuration ensures long-term, stable, and continuous conversion of the feedstocks. Thermodynamic modeling was used to achieve chemical balance and maintain a steady pH over time. The introduction of an extra “buffer” layer prevented unwanted side reactions, further enhancing efficiency.

Applications and Future Potential

The formate fuel produced through this process can be adapted for various applications, from household units to large-scale industrial or grid-scale storage systems. Initial household applications could involve a refrigerator-sized electrolyzer unit to capture and convert CO2 into formate, which can then be stored in underground or rooftop tanks. The solid powder can be mixed with water and fed into a fuel cell to provide power and heat. The researchers believe this technology has potential for use in factories and the grid.

Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs)

1. SDG 7: Affordable and Clean Energy – The conversion of CO2 into formate fuel contributes to the goal of providing affordable and clean energy for all.
2. SDG 9: Industry, Innovation, and Infrastructure – The development of this efficient conversion process supports innovation in sustainable industry and infrastructure.
3. SDG 13: Climate Action – By capturing and converting CO2, this process helps mitigate climate change and reduce greenhouse gas emissions.
4. SDG 17: Partnerships for the Goals – The collaboration between MIT, Harvard, and the support from the U.S. Department of Energy Office of Science exemplify the importance of partnerships in achieving sustainable development goals.

Conclusion

The development of an efficient process to convert CO2 into formate fuel represents a significant step towards achieving sustainable energy solutions. The high conversion efficiency, stability, and scalability of this process make it a promising candidate for replacing fossil fuels in various applications. With further optimization and implementation, this technology has the potential to contribute to the achievement of several Sustainable Development Goals.

Sources:

• MIT and Harvard University Study