This article is also available in Italian / Questo articolo è disponibile anche in italiano
Limenet is a startup from Lombardy that developed a revolutionary technology that allows to transform carbon dioxide into an aqueous solution of calcium bicarbonates, with potential beneficial effects on the marine ecosystem. It operates in the field of carbon dioxide removal with sea-based storage.
To achieve this, Limenet developed an innovative technology that enables carbon storage in the form of bicarbonates. From calcium carbonate − naturally occurring in large quantities, representing up to 7 percent of the Earth's crust composition − seawater and renewable energy, Limenet is able to transform carbon dioxide, collected from the atmosphere or other sources, into an aqueous solution of calcium bicarbonates. This provides a durable and stable CO2 storage solution within the sea and oceans.
The Limenet innovative technology
Limenet technology functions in a three-step process. First, it captures of CO₂ from the atmosphere. Then, the limestone raw material (calcium carbonate) is crushed, calcined, and converted into carbon dioxide and quicklime, which is then hydrated to obtain slaked lime. Finally, storage of the CO2 from calcination with calcium bicarbonates takes place. In this last stage slightly more than half of the obtained slaked lime is used to remove the carbon dioxide produced. This process, that takes place in the Limenet reactor, makes it possible to obtain carbonates or calcium bicarbonates.
This process offers a dual benefit: on the one hand, it transforms gaseous carbon dioxide counteracting climate change. On the other hand, by dissolving carbonate compounds in seawater, it increases its alkalinity, that is, its ability to resist changes in acidity levels, potentially benefiting the marine ecosystem.
Website:
Name:
Limenet
Sector:
CO₂ Storage
Co-benefits:
Increased marine alkalinity and resistance to changes in sea acidity levels
Characteristics:
Innovative technology for carbon storage and conversion to calcium bicarbonates
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