Methods and systems for fuel production
AssigneePrometheus Fuels, Inc
InventorRobert McGinnis
Life of this patent
Estimating the term…
Abstract
The present disclosure provides systems and methods for producing carbon products via electrochemical reduction from fluid streams containing a carbon-containing material, such as, for example, carbon dioxide. Electrochemical reduction systems and methods of the present disclosure may comprise micro- or nanostructured membranes for separation and catalytic processes. The electrochemical reduction systems and methods may utilize renewable energy sources to generate a carbon product comprising one or more carbon atoms (C1+ product), such as, for example, fuel. This may be performed at substantially low (or nearly zero) net or negative carbon emissions.
Claims25
1-23. (canceled)
A method for using a carbon-containing material to generate a carbon product comprising one or more carbon atoms (C1+ product), comprising:
- (a) providing an electrochemical system comprising (i) a cathode unit comprising a first compartment;
- a second compartment, a cathode, and a membrane comprising a plurality of pores, wherein said plurality of pores bring said first compartment in fluid communication with said second compartment and (ii) an anode unit comprising an anode;
- (b) directing an electrolyte solution comprising said carbon-containing material into said first compartment to bring said electrolyte solution into contact with said cathode;
- (c) reducing said carbon-containing material in said electrolyte solution while a voltage is applied between said cathode and said anode to generate said C1+ product, which C1+ product is directed through said plurality of pores to said second compartment;
- and
- (d) recovering said C1+ product from said second compartment of said electrochemical system.
27-29. (canceled)
36-37. (canceled)
(canceled)
47-49. (canceled)
The method of claim 49, wherein said average cross-sectional dimensions are no more than about 5 nanometers.
51-78. (canceled)
Dependencies are inferred from the claim text.