Carbon Capture Wall Structure with Controlled Material Distribution
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Solution Overview
Problem
Enhanced weathering methods for carbon capture, such as using crushed volcanic rock, pose environmental risks due to heavy metal contamination and high costs, necessitating a safer and more cost-effective approach for carbon capture and storage.
Innovation Solution
A decentralized closed-loop direct air capture system featuring a wall or pillar structure with carbon capturing materials like basalt and olivine, integrated with a distribution system for controlled deployment of carbon capture materials and water, minimizing environmental impact and waste production.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If crushed volcanic rock is used for enhanced weathering to capture carbon, then carbon capture effectiveness is improved, but heavy metal contamination risk increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces a distribution system as an intermediary mechanism that delivers carbon capturing material to specific locations (storage spaces between solid material pieces) rather than releasing it into the environment. This mediator approach allows controlled deployment while preventing harmful dispersion of heavy metals into the surrounding environment.
Solution Approach 2:
The invention applies carbon capturing material locally within enclosed storage spaces rather than distributing it broadly. The material is placed in specific locations (between solid material pieces in wall/pillar structures) where it can effectively capture carbon while being contained, preventing widespread environmental contamination of heavy metals.
2Object-affected harmful factors
If carbon capturing material is deployed into storage space between solid material pieces, then environmental safety is improved, but system complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The construction structure serves multiple functions simultaneously: it provides mechanical support as a wall or pillar, creates enclosed storage spaces for carbon capturing material, and enables controlled distribution of both carbon capturing material and water. This multi-functionality reduces the need for separate systems, thereby limiting the increase in complexity despite the advanced carbon capture capability.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent merges the carbon capture function with the structural construction by integrating storage spaces between solid material pieces directly into the wall or pillar structure. The distribution system is combined with the construction process itself, allowing simultaneous deployment of carbon capturing material and water through integrated piping arranged on or within the structure.
3Adaptability or versatility
If decentralized closed-loop system is implemented for direct air capture, then scalability is improved, but manufacturing complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The invention divides the carbon capture system into decentralized modular units that can be implemented at multiple locations. Each module includes its own storage spaces and distribution system, allowing independent deployment and scaling. This segmentation enables the system to be replicated and expanded without requiring complex centralized control infrastructure.
Solution Approach 2:
The closed-loop design allows the system to be self-sustaining by recycling and reusing materials locally. The distribution system enables controlled delivery of carbon capturing material and water to storage spaces, where the material naturally captures carbon through weathering processes. This self-service approach minimizes external inputs and complex operational requirements, facilitating scalability.
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
The system effectively captures and stores CO2 while reducing the risk of heavy metal contamination and minimizing waste, offering a scalable, cost-effective solution for climate impact through decentralized deployment.
Implementation Method 1
The particles then start weathering. For example, the forsterite contained in volcanic rock may remove carbon from the ecosystem during its chemical dissolution process.
Implementation Method 2
The carbon capturing material is configured for mineral carbonation
Implementation Method 3
a distribution system for controlled distribution of carbon capturing material and/or water into said storage space
Data Source
AI summary
Construction for carbon capture and/or storage, comprising a wall and/or pillar structure made from solid material pieces, carbon capturing material arranged in storage space between said solid material pieces, and a distribution system for controlled distribution of carbon capturing material and/or water into said storage space.