Khalifa University’s RIC2D And Levidian Join Forces For UAE Decarbonisation And Graphene Innovation

Khalifa University of Science and Technology's Research & Innovation Center for Graphene and 2D Materials (RIC2D) has partnered with British climate tech firm Levidian. This collaboration aims to advance the UAE's decarbonisation efforts by exploring carbon capture from gas flaring and future graphene applications. The agreement was signed at Khalifa University's Main Campus in Abu Dhabi by Professor Ebrahim Al Hajri, President of Khalifa University, and John Hartley, CEO of Levidian.

The partnership will focus on assessing Levidian’s LOOP technology for capturing carbon from various gas types, including flare gas from oil and gas facilities. Khalifa University's RIC2D will lead research into the applications of graphene produced during this process, which also generates clean hydrogen. This initiative aligns with the UAE's goals to reduce carbon emissions.

Prof. Hassan Arafat, Senior Director at RIC2D, expressed enthusiasm about the collaboration with Levidian. He stated, "We are delighted to enter into this partnership with Levidian and leverage their innovative LOOP technology to contribute to the UAE’s decarbonisation efforts. This collaboration will enable the RIC2D team to continue to spearhead research into the applications of graphene produced as part of the process, also creating clean hydrogen."

John Hartley, CEO of Levidian, shared his excitement about working with Khalifa University. He said, "We are delighted to be working with Khalifa University as the region’s leading academic institution as we continue to drive forward our technology and get more LOOPs out into the field." The partnership is expected to enhance both organisations' capabilities in advancing graphene-based technologies.

Earlier this year, Levidian announced plans to invest approximately US$100 million in the UAE. This investment includes establishing a new delivery centre that will serve as a showcase and central hub for their business in the Middle East. The centre is anticipated to create around 100 skilled professional roles and an additional 150 indirect jobs.

The graphene produced through this process is 'net zero' and can potentially be carbon negative depending on local grid conditions. It can improve efficiencies and enhance product characteristics in industries such as steel, batteries, and petrochemicals. Hydrogen produced can be used in various ways including injection into gas grids or as fuel for hydrogen fuel cell EVs.

RIC2D's Role in Advanced Materials

Khalifa University's RIC2D has been actively forming partnerships to drive innovation in advanced materials. It aims to combine expertise and resources towards accelerating graphene-based technology development and commercialisation. The centre collaborates with stakeholders in organising symposiums that explore the potential of 2D materials.

Levidian offers a unique service that aids hard-to-abate sectors by capturing carbon from methane gas and converting it into valuable graphene and hydrogen. This approach supports critical decarbonisation projects across various industries.

This strategic partnership between Khalifa University and Levidian marks a significant step towards achieving sustainable solutions through innovative technologies in the Middle East region.

With inputs from WAM