Descripció del projecte
The combustion of fossil fuels has led to a significant rise in atmospheric carbon dioxide (CO2) levels, posing a severe environmental challenge. To address this issue, multiple approaches can be employed, including enhancing energy efficiency, promoting renewable energy generation, and employing carbon capture and utilization (CCU) techniques. CCU involves capturing CO2 from stationary combustion sources or directly from the air using a process known as Direct Air Capture and Utilization (DACU). As fossil fuel consumption continues to increase, CCU and DACU have emerged as effective methods for reducing CO2 emissions and achieving mitigation targets without compromising energy supply.
In recent years, one particular method of capturing CO2 known as direct air capture (DAC) has gained significant attention among various capture strategies. DAC involves capturing carbon dioxide directly from the atmosphere, which poses a considerable challenge due to the low concentration of CO2 in the air (approximately 420 parts per million or ppm), in contrast to the higher concentrations found in stationary combustion sources (around 100,000 ppm).
Simultaneously, exploring potential applications for the captured CO2 is crucial. One interesting use is within agricultural greenhouses, where it can enhance crop productivity and yield. Recent scientific studies have demonstrated that enriching greenhouses with CO2, increasing levels from 400 to 1000 ppm, significantly boosts crop yield by promoting plant growth while also reducing energy requirements for heating and cooling. As a result, this can contribute to a decrease in the prices of cultivated products.
GASN2 is a company dedicated to the development of CO2 capture technologies utilizing adsorption processes. Currently, GASN2 has made significant progress in their Vacuum Pressure Swing Adsorption (VPSA) technology, which shows great competitiveness at pilot scale. This technology enables the capture of CO2 from concentrated sources such as combustion emissions.
The objective of the DACFARM project is to design an innovative Direct Air Capture and Utilization (DACU) technology based on adsorption processes. This technology aims to capture CO2 from the ambient air, which is a more diluted source compared to concentrated emissions, with the intention of using the captured CO2 in real scenarios, specifically in greenhouse crop cultivation. By employing this technology, the project seeks to increase crop yields and reduce energy costs and carbon footprint in agricultural production. In doing so, it aims to enhance the sustainability of the agricultural sector by incorporating circular economy strategies.
