In a groundbreaking development for the energy sector, researchers have demonstrated a rapid and efficient method for turning industrial carbon dioxide (CO2) emissions into solid minerals, offering a promising solution for permanent carbon storage. The study, led by Juerg M. Matter from the School of Ocean and Earth Science at the University of Southampton, was published in the journal “Communications Earth and Environment,” which translates to “Communications Earth and Environment.”
The research focuses on a process known as carbon capture and mineralisation (CCM), where CO2 is converted into carbonate minerals through reactions with rocks. This method provides a low-risk and permanent way to remove CO2 from the atmosphere. The team injected captured CO2 from an ammonia plant in the Sultanate of Oman into peridotite, a type of rock found in the Earth’s mantle, at a pilot test site in the Samail ophiolite.
“Our results show that within just 45 days after injection, approximately 88% of the injected CO2 was mineralised as carbonate minerals,” said Matter. This rapid mineralisation process highlights the potential of peridotites as a new type of reservoir for the safe and permanent disposal of anthropogenic CO2 emissions.
The implications for the energy sector are significant. Traditional carbon capture and storage methods often face challenges related to the long-term stability of stored CO2. However, mineralisation offers a more permanent solution, reducing the risk of CO2 leakage and providing a stable storage option.
“This successful approach of CCM unlocks peridotite as a promising new type of reservoir for the safe and permanent disposal of anthropogenic CO2 emissions,” Matter explained. The research could pave the way for large-scale implementation of CCM technologies, particularly in regions with abundant peridotite deposits.
The study’s findings are particularly relevant for industries looking to reduce their carbon footprint and meet stringent emissions regulations. By converting CO2 into stable minerals, companies can achieve more sustainable operations and contribute to global efforts to mitigate climate change.
As the energy sector continues to evolve, the need for innovative and effective carbon capture technologies becomes increasingly critical. This research not only advances our understanding of CCM but also opens up new possibilities for the future of carbon storage. The successful demonstration of rapid mineralisation in peridotites could inspire further exploration and development of similar technologies, ultimately shaping the landscape of carbon management and emissions reduction.