UAEU Researchers Develop Innovative Technology For Carbon Capture From Industrial Waste

Researchers at the United Arab Emirates University (UAEU) have achieved a significant milestone by obtaining a US patent for an innovative technology. This technology transforms industrial waste into an effective, affordable means of capturing and permanently storing carbon dioxide. This advancement could bolster global efforts to tackle climate change.

The breakthrough, spearheaded by Dr. Ashraf Aly Hassan, utilises carbide slag, a prevalent industrial by-product, to capture CO₂ and convert it into stable calcium carbonate. Remarkably, this process requires no additional chemicals or energy, relying solely on water and operating at room temperature. This makes it both environmentally friendly and cost-effective.

The research team comprises construction materials experts Dr. Hilal El-Hassan and Dr. Amr Eldieb, along with doctoral researcher Manisha Kothari. They revealed that one tonne of carbide slag can absorb half a tonne of CO₂ and produce 1.5 tonnes of calcium carbonate. This material can replace limestone or be used in cement production, offering added value for industrial producers.

Initially inspired by a sustainability challenge from Gulf Cryo, the project sought solutions for the large quantities of carbide slag generated by its operations. By recognising the slag's high lime content, the UAEU team leveraged its natural suitability for mineral carbonation, a method known for its durability in CO₂ storage.

The patent highlights the university's expanding research capabilities and aligns with the UAE’s net-zero 2050 strategy. The work received support through internal research funding. Looking forward, researchers plan to collaborate with industry partners like ADNOC to scale up this technology and test its application in real-world industrial settings.

This innovation not only addresses waste management but also provides a sustainable solution for carbon capture. By converting industrial by-products into valuable resources, it offers economic benefits while contributing to environmental conservation efforts.

With inputs from WAM