Focus

Solid sorbent of CO2 at high temperature

To mitigate the impact of fossil energy on pollution and greenhouse effect, the current technologies need to be improved for achieving limited environmental impact and high sustainability (zero emission). When CO2 sorbents are used in granular or structured forms, high superficial area and well developed open porosity are prerequisites for an effective process. A typical continuous process also requires the sorbent to be mechanically resistant, regenerable and easily available. ISTEC has tested at laboratory scale differently shaped hydroxyapatites as innovative materials able to chemically fix CO2 at 900-1200°C, temperatures over the activity range of conventional CaO based sorbents. This finding, along with the better performances of apatites in maintaining absorbing capacity and structural properties upon several absorbing-desorbing cycles and with the lower energy for regeneration, opens perspective for practical utilization.