Integrated hybrid system for solar energy generation and carbon dioxide capture and conversion

Description

Integrated hybrid system for solar energy generation and carbon dioxide capture and conversion Detailed Description of the Invention: This invention falls within the renewable energy sector, and more specifically within hybrid systems that combine solar energy with CO2 capture and transformation processes. The main objective is to improve the efficiency of conventional photovoltaic systems and, simultaneously, contribute to decarbonization through the capture and use of carbon dioxide. The proposed hybrid system represents a significant advance in the integration of solar power generation technologies and carbon dioxide (CO2) capture and conversion processes, designed to maximize efficiency and sustainability. The present invention describes an integrated system that combines a photovoltaic solar panel with an artificial photosynthetic reactor for the capture and conversion of carbon dioxide (CO₂) into energy products (e.g., hydrogen or methanol). The system is designed to operate continuously, harnessing sunlight during the day and processing CO₂ continuously, thereby contributing to the reduction of greenhouse gas emissions and increased energy efficiency. It uses state-of-the-art photovoltaic cells based on perovskite or silicon heterojunction, characterized by their high conversion efficiency and stability. Implement a Concentrating Solar Power (CSP) system with parabolic mirrors or Fresnel lenses, combined with a phase controller (PCM) to ensure continuous power generation. It integrates a dual-axis solar tracking system, controlled by artificial intelligence algorithms, to optimize the capture of direct solar radiation. It incorporates high-frequency inverters with soft-switching technology to minimize conversion losses and improve the quality of the generated electrical power. Another detail of the invention is that the solar panel is mounted on a structure adjustable between 30º and 45º. High selectivity CO₂ capture subsystem: It employs pressure swing adsorption (PSA) or temperature swing adsorption (TSA) units with advanced adsorbent materials, such as metal-organic frameworks (MOFs) or functionalized amines, for selective capture of CO from emission sources or ambient air. It uses gas separation membrane systems based on high selectivity polymers or facilitated transport membranes for efficient CO separation. It implements an inlet gas pretreatment system that includes particle filters, moisture separators, and contaminant adsorbers to ensure the purity of the captured CO₂. High-efficiency CO2 conversion subsystem: It integrates ion exchange membrane (IEM) or solid oxide electrochemical (SOEC) reactors for the conversion of CO into value-added chemicals, such as methanol, formic acid or olefins, using electricity generated by the solar subsystem. It implements heterogeneous photocatalysis systems that use semiconductor nanoparticles activated by concentrated sunlight for the direct conversion of CO into fuels or chemicals. It incorporates biological processes that use genetically modified microorganisms or advanced bioreactor systems for the conversion of CO₂ into high-value bioproducts. In one possible embodiment, the internal catalyst of the photosynthetic reactor consists of cobalt oxide nanoparticles or titanium dioxide doped to facilitate the CO reduction reaction. Intelligent integration and control system: It implements an adaptive control system based on machine learning algorithms to optimize the operation of the three subsystems in real time, maximizing overall efficiency and minimizing energy consumption. It integrates a network of distributed sensors for real-time monitoring of process parameters, such as solar radiation, temperature, pressure, gas flow and product composition; among which are CO concentration sensors at the reactor inlet, with a sensitivity range of 300 to 5000 ppm. It incorporates energy storage systems, such as lithium-ion batteries or supercapacitors, to optimize the use of generated energy and ensure system stability. Key innovations: Synergistic integration of advanced solar power generation, CO2 capture and conversion technologies through an adaptive control system. Use of state-of-the-art materials and processes for the capture and conversion of CO₂ with high selectivity and efficiency. Modular and scalable design that allows the system to be adapted to different applications and sizes, from small decentralized installations to large industrial plants. Implementation of an intelligent control system that optimizes performance based on environmental and operating conditions, ensuring system stability and efficiency. Daytime operating mode: The photovoltaic panel powers both the controller and the reactor. CO₂ is injected, the catalyst initiates the reaction, generating H₂, or other compounds. Nighttime operating mode: The system can continue capturing CO₂ if stored energy (batteries) is available or if the chemical reaction that generates residual heat / energy is used to maintain the reactor temperature. Possible product storage: If H is generated, by artificial photosynthetic reaction or by electrolysis of water, it can be stored in pressurized tanks; if methanol or other liquid fuels are generated, they can be collected in suitable tanks.

Claims

1. An integrated hybrid system for solar energy generation and carbon dioxide capture and conversion, characterized by comprising: a photovoltaic solar panel for converting solar radiation into electrical energy; an artificial photosynthetic reactor with an internal catalyst; an intelligent controller that regulates the distribution of electrical energy and the CO2 flow; and a storage system for storing the generated energy or the products resulting from the conversion.

2. A system according to claim 1, wherein the internal catalyst of the photosynthetic reactor consists of cobalt oxide or titanium dioxide nanoparticles doped to facilitate the CO2 reduction reaction.

3. A system according to claim 1, wherein the solar panel is mounted on a structure adjustable between 30° and 45°.

4. A system according to claim 1, wherein the storage system comprises a pressurized hydrogen tank. 5.A system, according to claim 1, incorporating CO2 concentration sensors at the reactor inlet, with a sensitivity range of 300 to 5000 ppm.