In a groundbreaking development poised to reshape the energy sector’s approach to carbon emissions, researchers have successfully scaled up an innovative electrochemical process that transforms carbon dioxide into valuable graphene nanomaterials. The study, published in the journal “Decarbonization Science and Technology” (formerly known as ‘DeCarbon’), details the transition from a small-scale laboratory process to an industrial-scale solution capable of removing hundreds of tonnes of CO2 annually.
At the heart of this research is the C2CNT® (CO2 to Carbon NanoTechnology) process, developed by Kyle Hofstetter and his team at Carbon Corp in Calgary, Canada. The process involves the electrolytic splitting of CO2 using transition metal catalysts, converting the greenhouse gas into a range of graphene allotropes, such as carbon nanotubes and carbon nano-onions. “This isn’t just about capturing carbon; it’s about transforming a liability into an asset,” Hofstetter explained. “The graphene nanomaterials produced have significant commercial value, making the process economically viable while addressing the urgent need for greenhouse gas mitigation.”
The journey began with a modest 0.0005 m² electrode process in 2015. Since then, Hofstetter and his team have scaled up the technology to meter-square electrodes, integrating them into industrial modules dubbed “Genesis Devices.” Each of these devices is capable of removing 100 tonnes of CO2 annually. The research outlines a clear pathway to further scale-up, envisioning a series of these modules forming a megaton annual decarbonization plant.
The commercial implications for the energy sector are substantial. By converting CO2 into high-value graphene nanomaterials, the C2CNT® process offers a compelling economic incentive for industries to adopt carbon capture and utilization (CCUS) technologies. These nanomaterials have applications in electronics, materials science, and energy storage, potentially revolutionizing industries that rely on advanced materials.
“This technology has the potential to disrupt the carbon market,” Hofstetter noted. “By providing a viable pathway to convert CO2 into valuable products, we can incentivize industries to invest in carbon capture technologies, ultimately contributing to global efforts to mitigate climate change.”
The research also highlights the role of molten carbonate electrolytes in facilitating the CO2 splitting process. This aspect of the study could pave the way for further advancements in carbon dioxide electrolysis, offering new avenues for researchers and industries to explore.
As the world grapples with the existential threat of climate change, innovations like the C2CNT® process offer a glimmer of hope. By transforming a greenhouse gas into a valuable resource, this technology not only addresses the urgent need for carbon mitigation but also opens up new economic opportunities. The journey from a small-scale laboratory process to an industrial-scale solution is a testament to the power of innovation and the potential for technology to drive meaningful change in the fight against climate change.