In an unprecedented move, Equatic has announced plans for the world’s largest ocean-based carbon removal plant. This innovative project, set to be commissioned in Singapore, promises to remove 10 tonnes of CO2 daily while producing 300kg of carbon-negative hydrogen. The plant is a testament to the collaborative efforts of Equatic, PUB (Singapore’s National Water Agency), and UCLA, marking a significant milestone in the fight against climate change.
A Revolutionary Approach to Carbon Capture
Equatic’s carbon removal plant is poised to become a game-changer in environmental technology. The plant utilizes a unique combination of seawater, air, rock, and renewable electricity to not only capture CO2 but also generate carbon-negative hydrogen. This process, supported by the Department of Energy’s ARPA-E, employs oxygen-selective anodes to prevent the production of chlorine gas, making it a safer and more sustainable option for large-scale carbon capture.
The plant’s modular system allows for systematic expansion, ensuring that as demand grows, so too can the facility’s capacity. This scalability is crucial for meeting global carbon removal goals and supporting decarbonization efforts in industries that are traditionally difficult to abate.
The Science Behind the Success
At the heart of Equatic’s technology lies the electrochemical reactor, designed to bring removal costs below the industry target of $100 per tonne before 2030. The reactor’s efficiency is a result of years of research and development, drawing on insights from pilot facilities in Los Angeles and Singapore.
The process begins with electrolysis, where an electrical current is passed through seawater, splitting it into hydrogen and oxygen gas. The air is then processed through the seawater, capturing CO2 in solid minerals and dissolved substances naturally found in the oceans. This ensures that the captured CO2 remains securely stored for over 100,000 years.
Impact and Implications for the Future
The implications of Equatic’s carbon removal plant are far-reaching. Not only does it offer a viable solution to reducing atmospheric CO2 levels, but it also provides a source of clean energy through the production of carbon-negative hydrogen. This dual benefit has the potential to revolutionize industries and pave the way for a cleaner, more sustainable future.
As the world grapples with the challenges of climate change, Equatic’s efforts demonstrate that innovative solutions and collaborative partnerships can lead to significant environmental advancements. The success of this project could serve as a blueprint for other nations and companies looking to invest in carbon removal technologies.