California Patent of the Month – August 2024
Imagine capturing carbon dioxide (CO2) directly from the air while simultaneously producing green hydrogen. An approach like this would provide a solution to target the rapidly accumulating CO2 in the atmosphere. Capture6 Corp., a visionary company in climate change technology, has patented a direct air capture solution capable of capturing and sequestering CO2.
At the heart of Capture6’s technology is an electrochemical process that utilizes seawater, brackish water, or brine effluent as an input liquid. This process produces a hydroxide-rich stream, which acts as a powerful agent to capture CO2 from the atmosphere. The captured CO2 is then converted into a liquid carbonate solution, which is processed to form a stable solid carbonate. This solid is ideal for long-term storage, either buried in geological formations or used in construction materials, effectively removing it from the atmosphere.
But Capture6’s method goes beyond just CO2 capture. The same electrochemical process generates a hydrogen-rich stream. By dissolving minerals or metals into this stream, the system creates a solution that can precipitate valuable materials, such as lithium and other minerals, which can be extracted for industrial use. The byproduct of this reaction is green hydrogen, a clean energy source that can fuel various applications, from transportation to electricity generation, without releasing any pollutants.
What sets Capture6 apart is its commitment to sustainability. The system is designed to recycle the salt solution generated during the process, feeding it back into the input stream, thereby minimizing waste and maximizing efficiency. This recycling feature ensures that the environmental footprint of the technology remains minimal.
One of the most compelling aspects of Capture6’s technology is its potential for scalability and integration with existing industrial infrastructures. Desalination plants, for example, can incorporate this CO2 capture method into their operations, using their brine effluent as the input liquid. This synergy not only enhances desalination efficiency but also contributes to significant carbon capture, helping industries meet stringent environmental regulations while reducing costs.
As the world grapples with the urgent need to reduce greenhouse gas emissions, Capture6 offers a beacon of hope. Their method provides a practical solution for reducing atmospheric CO2 levels, curbing climate change, and paving the way for a more sustainable future.
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