Solar Conversion of CO2 and Water Vapor to Hydrocarbon Fuels
Technology Description:
Pennsylvania State University (Penn State) is developing a novel sunlight to chemical fuel conversion system. This innovative technology is based on tuning the properties of nanotube arrays with co-catalysts to achieve efficient solar conversion of CO2 and water vapor to methane and other hydrocarbons. The goal of this project is to build a stand-alone collector which can achieve ~2% sunlight to chemical fuel conversion efficiency via CO2 reduction.
Potential Impact:
If successful, the team's nanotube arrays could support the efficient and economical conversion of CO2 into liquid transportation fuels.
Security:
Enabling alternative fuel sources and diversifying our energy portfolio, particularly for the transportation sector, would reduce U.S. dependence on foreign sources of oil and improve our energy security.
Environment:
Carbon capture and conversion technology could prevent more than 800 million tons of CO2 from being emitted into the atmosphere each year.
Economy:
Improving the cost-effectiveness of alternative, renewable fuel technologies could help insulate consumers from unexpected oil price shocks that threaten to raise the price of gas.
Contact
ARPA-E Program Director:
Dr. Eric Toone
Project Contact:
Dana Marsh
Press and General Inquiries Email:
ARPA-E-Comms@hq.doe.gov
Project Contact Email:
danamarsh@engr.psu.edu
Partners
Sentech Corporation
Related Projects
Release Date:
10/26/2009