Researchers from the University of Cambridge have developed a reactor that can capture and recycle carbon dioxide directly from the atmosphere, operating entirely on solar energy.

PRINCIPLE OF OPERATION AND TECHNOLOGY DETAILS The developed reactor combines carbon dioxide capture and a chemical transformation similar to photosynthesis. Carbon dioxide taken from the atmosphere is drawn into the reactor through specially designed surfaces and porous structures. This design has been optimized to efficiently capture CO₂ molecules. At the core of the reactor is a photochemical cell that uses the energy obtained from sunlight to convert carbon dioxide. This cell contains semiconductor materials that can absorb light and nanostructured catalysts. During the process, water molecules are also separated to obtain hydrogen, allowing CO₂ to interact with hydrogen to transform into synthesis gas containing carbon monoxide (CO) and other reactive components. This approach, akin to nature’s photosynthesis process, harnesses chemical energy from sunlight but goes beyond biological limitations by offering highly controllable reaction conditions. The developed catalysts and light-absorbing systems play a critical role both in increasing efficiency and minimizing unwanted byproduct formation.

TECHNICAL ADVANTAGES AND APPLICATION POTENTIAL Operating entirely on solar energy makes the system environmentally friendly and sustainable. Its lack of fossil fuels helps significantly reduce carbon footprint. The system, successfully tested on a laboratory scale, was designed with a modular structure to be potentially applied on an industrial scale in the future. This design allows for integration into local energy production in regions with limited access to energy. The resulting synthesis gas can be used as an intermediate in the chemical industry, fuel production, and even in the pharmaceutical industry. In this respect, the system has the potential to revolutionize both energy production and industrial chemistry. Researchers note that this carbon-eating reactor is still in the conceptual proof-of-concept stage. Ongoing research focuses on improving efficiency and long-term stability to make the system more feasible on an industrial scale. The integration with processes like Fischer-Tropsch for producing liquid fuels from synthesis gas is being considered a significant alternative in clean energy production. This technology is seen as a significant step in combating increasing global warming and carbon emissions. It is believed that this solar-powered transformation system can offer innovative solutions in future energy and environmental policies.