Why is this research needed?

The increasing challenge of climate change demands innovative solutions for carbon capture and storage (CCS). This project proposes an approach by integrating direct air capture (DAC) with biomass-based CCS for Biomass Gasification Integrated Combined Cycle (BIGCC) technology. By coupling BIGCC with advanced amine-based CCS, it aims to reduce carbon emissions. The use of waste heat from the BIGCC plant to power the DAC system enables the extraction of CO2 directly from the atmosphere, potentially achieving negative emissions. This project will conduct a comprehensive evaluation of the techno-economic and environmental aspects of the BIGCC-DAC-CCS system, optimizing its performance and providing actionable policy recommendations to facilitate its commercialization. This approach not only addresses the urgent need for carbon reduction, but also covers the way for sustainable and scalable climate solutions.

What is this research investigating?

This project intends to investigate the following research objectives:
– Conceptualisation of a BIGCC with amine-based CCS coupled with a DAC system.
– Assessment of the performance of the twin carbon capture system compared to conventional methods.
– Evaluation of the financial and environmental viability of the twin carbon capture system.
– Multi-objective optimisation of the integrated BIGCC-DAC-CCS hybrid system.
– Policy recommendations related to DAC-based technology from a commercialisation perspective.

What does the research hope to achieve?

1. Environmental and Climate Scientists:
– Empirical evidence for effective carbon emissions reduction.
– Support for promoting wider adoption of carbon capture technologies.

2. Energy Industry and Utilities:
– Insights for reducing carbon footprint while maintaining energy production.
– Feasibility and economic viability of adopting integrated carbon capture systems.

3. Government and Policy Makers:
– Informed decision-making for designing climate policies and regulations.
– Policy recommendations for encouraging adoption and commercialisation.

4. Investors and Industry Stakeholders:
– Understanding financial viability and return on investment.
– Identifying collaboration and investment opportunities for scaling up technologies.

5. Communities and Society at Large:
– Cleaner air, improved public health, and better quality of life.
– Catalyst for broader conversations on climate change and sustainability.

6. Research Expertise and Collaboration:
– Utilization of expertise from a collaborative team at Durham University (DU).
– DU’s status as a leading academic in decarbonisation and CO2 capture technologies.
– Direct benefits for the UK academic community through analysis, models, and technical support.

7. Dissemination of Research Outcomes:
– Presentation of research outcomes at industry workshops and high-profile conferences.
– Participation in events such as the Global Conference on ‘Carbon Capture Technology Expo Europe’ and CO2 Shipping & Terminals Conference 2024.
– Targeting a minimum of two publications from this project. like Carbon Capture Science & Technology and the Journal of Cleaner Production.
– Presentation of research outcomes at industrial forums, workshops, and seminars.