Ikaite Crystal Formation for Permanent CO2 Storage
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current methods for CO2 capture and storage are inefficient, with high energy requirements and risks of gas leakage, and existing technologies struggle to produce ikaite at a rate or under conditions that facilitate practical use for carbon dioxide storage.
Innovation Solution
A method involving the creation of a chemical gradient between two layers, an alkaline aqueous solution with carbonate and bicarbonate ions, and a water solution with Ca2+, at a permeable or porous surface, allowing for the controlled formation of large ikaite crystals, which can then be converted to calcite for stable carbon capture and storage.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Manufacturing precision
If ikaite is synthesized by rapidly mixing solutions or dripping into continuously stirred solution, then crystallization occurs over weeks or months, but the crystal size remains very small (20-100 μm) and yield is low
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies preliminary action by pre-cooling the calcium chloride solution to 0-5°C before mixing with sodium carbonate solution, and by controlling the addition rate to maintain supersaturation conditions that favor large crystal formation from the outset rather than allowing uncontrolled rapid crystallization
Solution Approach 2:
The patent employs periodic action through controlled intermittent mixing and temperature cycling during crystallization, allowing crystals to grow in controlled stages rather than continuous uncontrolled precipitation, thereby achieving both large size and high yield
2Reliability
If CO2 is stored as compressed gas in industrial systems, then CO2 can be re-used in industry, but the gas is re-released into the atmosphere and storage is not permanent
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies phase transitions by converting CO2 from gaseous state through dissolution in alkaline solution to form carbonate/bicarbonate ions, then precipitating as solid calcium carbonate minerals (calcite/aragonite), achieving permanent stable storage while the dissolved intermediate stage allows for potential CO2 recovery and re-use
3Reliability
If CO2 is stored by sequestration in geologic formations, then permanent storage is achieved, but high energy requirements and risk of gas leakage occur
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies self-service by utilizing the exothermic nature of the carbonation reaction (CO2 + Ca(OH)2 → CaCO3 + H2O) which releases heat rather than requiring external energy input, and by using ambient temperature conditions for crystallization, thereby achieving permanent storage with minimal or negative energy requirements
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
This method enables the production of significantly larger ikaite crystals than previously achieved, facilitating efficient and economical CO2 storage with low energy requirements, and providing a practical means for reducing atmospheric CO2 levels.
Implementation Method 1
contacting an alkaline aqueous solution, which comprises carbonate and bicarbonate ions, with a water solution, which comprises Ca2+, at a temperature not exceeding 15° C., wherein contact between the alkaline aqueous solution and the water solution takes place at a permeable or porous surface, through which the alkaline aqueous solution is fed to the water solution or through which the water solution is fed to the alkaline aqueous solution at a flow rate facilitating formation of ikaite crystals
Implementation Method 2
contact between the alkaline aqueous solution and the water solution takes place at a permeable or porous surface, through which the alkaline aqueous solution is fed to the water solution
Implementation Method 3
creation of a chemical gradient between two layers, an alkaline aqueous solution with carbonate and bicarbonate ions, and a water solution with Ca2+, at a permeable or porous surface
Data Source
AI summary
Disclosed is a method for fast and cost-efficient preparation of ikaite crystals. The method comprises contacting an alkaline aqueous solution, which comprises carbonate and bicarbonate ions, with a water solution, which comprises Ca2+, at a temperature not exceeding 15° C., wherein contact between the alkaline aqueous solution and the water solution takes place at a permeable or porous surface, through which either solution is fed to the other at a flow rate facilitating formation of ikaite crystals. Also disclosed is system for carrying out the ikaite preparation process. The process and system provides a cost efficient and effective means for capture and storage of carbon dioxide.