Switzerland – ETH Zurich, a science technology and engineering university, developed a technology for creating fuel from sunlight and air mixture. A mini solar refinery in Zurich proved that the study is practical and achievable. This technology produces hydrocarbon fuel from sunlight and air.
Carbon-neutral fuels are used to make aviation and maritime transport carriage. This new solar plant produces synthetic liquid fuels that release CO2 during combustion. The plant extracts CO2 and water from ambient air and split them by using solar energy. The whole process contains syngas, a mixture of hydrocarbon and carbon monoxide which are finally converted into kerosene and other hydrocarbons.
The process of making fuel combines three thermo chemical equation processes – the extraction of CO2 and water from the air, the solar-thermochemical splitting of CO2 and water and subsequent liquefaction into hydrocarbon. This process of making fuel is compatible with the climate condition of the city. It can produce one-deciliter fuel per day. The next goal of the technology is to make it available economically in industrial use.
Aldo Steinfeld is a professor of renewable energy carriers at ETH Zurich and he was the leader of the group developed the technology. He said, “This plant proves that carbon-neutral hydrocarbon fuels can be made from sunlight and air under real field conditions. The thermochemical process utilizes the entire solar spectrum and proceeds at high temperatures, enabling fast reactions and high efficiency. A solar plant spanning an area of one square kilometer could produce 20,000 liters of kerosene a day.”
Ajeta Sinha
Ajeta is passionate for excellence with commitment towards work. She founded BO Herald with an aim to create a cutting-edge online platform for readers who seek unlimited access to quality news pieces. She jots down articles for Economy section.
