Carbon capture: The technology that could save the planet

Carbon capture is one of the most promising emerging technologies in the fight against climate change. With increasing concentrations of carbon dioxide (CO2) in the atmosphere due to human activity, the need for innovative solutions becomes increasingly urgent.

What is Carbon Capture?

Carbon capture, also known as carbon capture and storage (CCS), is a process that involves capturing CO2 emitted by industrial and energy sources, and subsequently storing it underground to prevent it from entering the the atmosphere. This approach is crucial to reducing greenhouse gas emissions and limiting global warming.

Carbon Capture Methods

Afterburner Capture

This method captures CO2 from exhaust gases after the combustion of fossil fuels. Liquid solvents are used that absorb CO2, which is then separated and stored. Afterburner capture is applicable to existing power plants and other industrial facilities, making it a flexible and practical option.

Precombustion Capture

In this process, the fossil fuel is gasified before combustion, producing a mixture of hydrogen and CO2. CO2 is separated before combustion, allowing for more efficient capture. This method is mainly used in integrated combined gasification (IGCC) power plants.

Oxycombustion Capture

Combustion with pure oxygen instead of air produces exhaust gases consisting mainly of CO2 and water vapor. By removing nitrogen from the air, the process simplifies CO2 capture. Although promising, oxycombustion requires significant adjustments to existing power plants.

Advances in Carbon Capture Technologies

Advanced Materials

Advances in materials such as solid sorbents, membranes and ionic liquids are improving the efficiency of CO2 capture. These materials allow for greater selectivity and absorption capacity, reducing costs and increasing the viability of CCS technologies.

Geological Storage

The captured CO2 is stored in deep geological formations, such as ancient oil and gas fields, salt formations or unmineable coal seams. Research in geological storage focuses on ensuring long-term security and stability, as well as monitoring stored CO2.

Use of Captured CO2

The captured CO2 can also be reused in industrial processes, such as the production of synthetic fuels, construction materials and chemicals. This approach, known as carbon utilization (CCU), not only reduces emissions, but also creates economic value from CO2.

Impact and Future of Carbon Capture

Emissions Reduction

Carbon capture is essential to achieving the goals of the Paris Agreement and limiting global warming to 1.5 degrees Celsius above pre-industrial levels. According to the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC), widespread implementation of CCS could significantly reduce global CO2 emissions.

Despite its potential, carbon capture faces significant problems, including high upfront costs, the need for infrastructure, and public acceptance. However, with government support and investment in research and development, these barriers can be overcome.

Innovation and Policies

The success of carbon capture technologies largely depends on continued innovation and supporting policies. Incentives such as carbon credits, research grants, and international agreements are crucial to driving CCS development and adoption.