Environmentally friendly conversion of carbon dioxide into carbon nanofibers
This technology is an electrochemical-thermochemical method to effectively produce carbon nanofibers (CNFs) from CO2 gas in ambient conditions.
Unmet Need: Environmentally safe, efficient methods for carbon dioxide conversion
Carbon dioxide (CO2) is a major contributor to climate change, prompting efforts to capture and reuse or store the gas. One promising approach is converting CO2 into carbon nanofibers (CNFs), which have applications in industries such as aerospace, defense, automotive, and batteries. However, traditional methods for this conversion rely on harmful, environmentally unfriendly compounds and face thermodynamic challenges, requiring high temperatures to be effective. As a result, there is a pressing need for more efficient and environmentally friendly alternatives for converting CO2 into CNFs.
The Technology: Safe, environmentally friendly approach for converting carbon dioxide into carbon nanofibers
This technology is a cleaner method for synthesizing carbon nanofibers (CNFs) from carbon dioxide using a combined thermochemical and electrochemical process. First, CO2 and H2 are electrolyzed to produce CO and H2. Then, CNFs are catalyzed at moderate temperatures and ambient pressures, with the process aided by an iron-cobalt (FeCo) alloy, which can then be recycled for use in subsequent reactions. This approach has the potential to reduce carbon dioxide waste from industrial processes while simultaneously producing CNFs for various industrial applications.
Applications:
- Carbon capture for repurposing
- Carbon capture for storage
- Carbon nanofiber synthesis
- Syngas (CO) and hydrogen gas (H2) production
Advantages:
- Improved energy-efficiency
- More environmentally friendly with fewer waste products
- Simple and scalable
Lead Inventor:
Patent Information:
Patent Pending
Related Publications:
Tech Ventures Reference:
IR CU24182
Licensing Contact: Greg Maskel