(235a) Enabling a Solid-State Carbon Dioxide Distribution Network

Efforts like the Carbon Capture, Utilization, and Storage R&D program implemented by the U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) Office of Fossil Energy are focused on developing technologies to capture, separate, and store CO₂ so that greenhouse gas emissions are reduced without adversely decreasing the U.S. energy supply and subsequently hindering economic growth.

In this presentation, a joint effort between RRTC Inc. and Rutgers University towards demonstrating the feasibility of a solid-state CO₂ capture, storage, distribution, and utilization (ss-CCSDU) paradigm is described. This "carbon network" is enabled by two novel process technologies. The first technology is known as low-temperature solidification (LTS), which can be used to capture CO₂ to form solid carbonates in an energy-efficient manner. The second technology that is key to the proposed paradigm is a hydrothermal release process that is normally used to synthesize submicron multicomponent oxide powders but can also be used as a low-energy route for separating CO₂ from solid carbonates in a controlled manner.

Together, the two technologies provide cyclability for capture and release of CO₂, allowing the transport of CO₂ in solid form from the site of its emission for utilization elsewhere. Calculations show that logistical management of CO₂ in this manner can be less costly and allows much more throughput than traditional storage forms like compressed gas and liquid CO₂. Such benefits are of great interest to those who utilize CO₂ in industrial processes.