Using Captured CO₂ to Produce Renewable Fuels and Chemicals

Our carbon reuse processes combine captured carbon dioxide with hydrogen to produce energy-dense, drop-in fuels that are compatible with the pipeline infrastructure and end-use devices and can utilize renewable energy to produce a family of products with low carbon intensities (CI).

GTI Energy researchers completed a proof-of-concept project with the Department of Energy (DOE) Advanced Research Projects Agency-Energy (ARPA-E) program to develop a catalytic membrane reactor for the synthesis of diesel fuel substitute dimethyl ether (DME) from hydrogen, CO₂, and water. In a bench-scale prototype, the DME production rate was three times higher than a packed bed reactor, and the CO₂ conversion rate was 80% higher.

In a current project with DOE’s Carbon Management program, a membrane reactor is being developed for the production of propane and other liquified petroleum gases (LPG) components. Under single-pass conditions, CO₂ conversion as high as 90% and LPG yield as high as 61% have been achieved.