From Closed-Loop Cycles to a Clean Future: Reducing CO2 Emissions by 60-90%

What is it about?

Anthropogenic CO₂ emissions remain a primary driver of climate change. We propose a scalable closed-loop carbon management system that integrates advanced Ni–CeO₂–ZrO₂ catalysts for the Sabatier reaction, structured reactor architectures for optimal heat and mass transfer, and in-vehicle hydrogen electrolysis powered by ICE exhaust energy. Our conceptual design reclaims reaction heat to sustain electrolysis, converting CO₂ into methane for on-site storage or reuse, while H₂ enrichment boosts engine efficiency. Toy-model simulations and mass-balance calculations project CO₂ reductions of 60–90% relative to baseline operations. We detail catalyst performance metrics, reactor design criteria, and hydrogen integration protocols, and provide a techno-economic analysis demonstrating long-term cost benefits over conventional fossil systems. This Original Research article offers practical engineering guidelines and testable performance targets, paving the way for rapid deployment of enhanced legacy technologies in climate mitigation strategies.

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Photo by Angie Corbett-Kuiper on Unsplash

Photo by Angie Corbett-Kuiper on Unsplash

Why is it important?

reserving Earth’s Biosphere: Terrestrial resource extraction (mining, drilling, logging) imposes irreversible damage on ecosystems. By shifting heavy industry to off-Earth platforms—asteroids, the lunar surface—we reduce habitat loss, soil erosion, and pollution on our home planet. In-situ resource utilization (ISRU) leverages water ice on the Moon for life support and propellant, drastically cutting down the need to launch mass from Earth, thus slashing CO₂ emissions from rocket launches. Enabling Sustainable Deep-Space Exploration: Long-duration missions (Mars, deep asteroid missions) require refueling depots in cislunar space. Harvesting and processing local resources creates a closed-loop logistics network: water → hydrogen/oxygen propellant → thrust → recycled water. This reduces mission costs by an order of magnitude (>70%) and opens the door to permanent habitats on the Moon or Mars without endless Earth-to-orbit supply chains. Fostering a Circular Economy in Orbit: Spacecraft servicing, recycling of satellite components (solar panels, structural alloys), and manufacturing using space-derived metals create industrial loops akin to “mining the junkyard” rather than Earth. It curbs orbital debris, mitigates collision risks (Kessler syndrome), and preserves orbital highways for communications and observation platforms.

Perspectives