Success cases
Plasma and microwave technology for the production of hydrogen carriers such as methanol and formic acid
Given the urgency of reducing CO₂ emissions and advancing decarbonization, the project is based on the search for alternatives to conventional thermocatalytic processes. Plasma and microwave-based technologies are emerging as innovative options for transforming captured CO₂ into useful molecules such as methanol and formic acid, which can act as hydrogen carriers or be used as chemicals or fuels
Challenge
The initial challenge was to verify the feasibility of producing hydrogen directly from CO₂ using these alternative technologies. However, technical difficulties such as the generation of black carbon and low yields forced a refocusing of the strategy. In this new phase, the main challenge was to analyze the current state of technological development, map competitors, and identify opportunities for processes that produce methanol and formic acid using plasma and microwaves, also taking into account the emerging regulatory framework such as the European ETS system and policies supporting CCU (Carbon Capture and Utilization).
Solution
A strategic analysis focused on low-TRL technologies was carried out, with particular attention to methods using plasma, microwaves, or hybrid combinations. Patents, scientific articles, and industrial cases were reviewed to identify trends, limitations, and transfer potential. European incentives related to carbon capture and the possible reconversion of this CO₂ into value-added products were also considered, such as methanol, already established on an industrial scale, or formic acid, with more specific applications.
Result
The work has allowed us to identify a technological niche with high potential but still in the exploratory phase. Plasma and microwave-based technologies show promising results at the laboratory level, although they are still far from reaching industrial maturity. The analysis has revealed a growing market driven by regulation and decarbonization goals, and has laid the groundwork for future collaborations on pilot projects to validate the viability and scalability of these technologies.
“The analysis has revealed a growing market driven by regulation and decarbonization goals.”
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