Researchers at the University of Cambridge have developed a groundbreaking solar-powered reactor that converts atmospheric carbon dioxide into a gas that could power vehicles, homes, and pharmaceutical products sustainably.
The innovation is inspired by photosynthesis and claims to be more scalable than previous solar-powered devices. The technology captures CO2 from the air using a mirror to concentrate sunlight, which heats up the collected gas and triggers a chemical reaction that converts it into synthesis gas (syngas).
Syngas is a mixture of carbon monoxide and hydrogen, an essential ingredient in producing fuels and chemicals. The team is currently exploring ways to convert syngas into liquid fuels for sustainable vehicle power.
This solar reactor has the potential to address two pressing issues: removing CO2 from the atmosphere and providing a clean alternative to fossil fuels. It could also be used by individuals to provide energy for remote locations, reducing reliance on traditional energy sources.
Source: https://gizmodo.com/this-solar-powered-reactor-sucks-co2-from-the-air-and-turns-it-into-fuel-2000563558