Cambridge Reactor Converts CO2 into Fuel Using Sunlight

University of Cambridge researchers have developed a solar-powered reactor that captures carbon dioxide directly from the air and transforms it into sustainable fuel. This innovation, reported in Nature Energy, offers a promising alternative to energy-intensive carbon capture and storage (CCS) methods. Unlike CCS, this reactor requires no fossil fuels, transportation, or CO2 storage. Instead, it utilizes sunlight to convert atmospheric CO2 into syngas, a crucial component in producing various chemicals and pharmaceuticals. The device employs specialized filters to capture CO2 from the air, which is then heated by sunlight. A semiconductor powder absorbs ultraviolet radiation, initiating a chemical reaction that converts the CO2 into syngas. The team is now focused on converting syngas into liquid fuels for vehicles and aircraft, aiming to create a closed-loop, sustainable system. Professor Erwin Reisner, who led the research, envisions a future where individuals can generate their own fuel in remote locations. Dr. Sayan Kar, first author of the study, highlights the potential of this technology to address climate change and provide a clean alternative to fossil fuels.