Syllabus: GS3/ Environment
In News
- At its Vindhyachal plant, NTPC achieved the first-ever synthesis of CO₂ (captured from flue gas) and hydrogen (from a PEM electrolyzer) into methanol. This pioneering carbon management technology aims to advance sustainable fuel production.
About CO₂-to-methanol conversion
- Carbon Dioxide Capture: CO2 is captured from industrial sources like power plants or directly from the atmosphere.
- Hydrogen Production: Renewable energy sources, such as solar or wind power, are used to produce hydrogen through electrolysis of water.
- Methanol Synthesis: The captured CO2 is combined with hydrogen in the presence of a catalyst to produce methanol. This process typically occurs at high pressure and temperature.
Benefits of CO2-to-Methanol Conversion
- Carbon Capture and Utilization (CCU): It provides a way to utilize CO2, reducing its impact on the atmosphere.
- Renewable Fuel Source: Methanol can be used as a fuel for transportation, power generation, or as a feedstock for chemicals.
- Energy Storage: Methanol can be stored and transported more easily than hydrogen, making it a potential energy storage solution and supporting a transition to hydrogen-based energy systems.
- Versatile Feedstock: Methanol is widely used in producing chemicals, solvents, and plastics, supporting diverse industrial applications.
What is Methanol?
- Brief: Methanol, also known as methyl alcohol or wood alcohol, is the simplest alcohol. It’s a clear, colorless, and flammable liquid with a distinctive odor.
- Key Properties: Colorless, Miscibility (mixes completely with water), Toxic if ingested, Flammability.
Source: ET
Previous article
Role of Technology in Modernising Fisheries Sector
Next article
Discovery of X-rays