Plasma-based point-source CCU technology to recycle CO2 into added value chemicals to decarbonize hard-to-abate industries

Project Information

D-CRBN

Grant agreement ID: 101161563

DOI

10.3030/101161563

Project closed

EC signature date 7 June 2024

Start date 1 July 2024

End date 30 June 2026

Funded under

• The European Innovation Council (EIC)

Total cost

€ 3 607 500,00

EU contribution

€ 2 499 999,00

Coordinated by

D-CRBN
Belgium

Periodic Reporting for period 1 - D-CRBN (Plasma-based point-source CCU technology to recycle CO2 into added value chemicals to decarbonize hard-to-abate industries)

Reporting period: 2024-07-01 to 2025-06-30

Summary of the context and overall objectives of the project

D-CRBN has a proprietary modular and scalable plasma technology capable of splitting the CO2 molecule into CO, all in a fully electrified, gaseous phase, without solvents nor catalysts.
The CO is then turned into added value chemicals, such as e-fuels, organic acids, polymers, etc, and be used as a feedstocks for the chemical, petrochemical, maritime and metallurgical industries among others.

Our aim at D-CRBN is not only to decarbonize industries by eliminating their point source emissions but also to replace fossil feedstocks with CO2 recycled added value chemicals.
This technology can provide strategic and decentralised resource independence to territories and industries which currently depend in oil and natural gas derivatives for their processes.

Within the framework of this project D-CRBN is developing its first industrial minimum scalable unit (MSU) as a preamble for a first of a kind (FOAK).
This project enables the completion of a critical milestone towards commercialization and industrial implementation of this technology.

Work performed from the beginning of the project to the end of the period covered by the report and main results achieved so far

Within the framework of this project, significant advancements were achieved across multiple fronts.

The team successfully optimized the reactor geometry, enhancing its efficiency and performance in a second generation plasma reactor.
Detailed engineering and construction of the second generation reactor was completed, ensuring robust and reliable operation.
Suitable co-reactants were identified and tested to meet customer output requirements, ensuring the production process aligns with market needs.

Additionally, a carbon feeding system was designed to improve material handling and process integration.
Modelling efforts yielded promising results for separation stage technologies, demonstrating their feasibility and integration with our process.
The project is currently focusing on the development of ready-to-manufacture engineering plans for the next scale-up equipment, positioning the technology for commercial readiness and broader industry adoption.

Progress beyond the state of the art and expected potential impact (including the socio-economic impact and the wider societal implications of the project so far)

Beyond the technological advancements facilitated by this funding scheme, participation in the program significantly enhanced D-CRBN's credibility and visibility.

This increased recognition acted as a catalyst for securing our Series A funding, which was crucial for accelerating commercial engagement with customers.
The program's support extended beyond financial backing, offering valuable networking opportunities and industry exposure.
These elements collectively strengthened D-CRBN's market position, enabling us to forge strategic partnerships and attract high-profile clients.

The elevated status and resources obtained through the program have been pivotal in driving our innovation forward and expanding our commercial reach, setting the stage for future growth and success.
The technical developments here achieved showed opportunities and the possibilities of this technology which are beyond our initial expectations prior to the engagement of this program.

This allows further technological optimization which will have a direct impact on the business case.
This project unlocks a new paradigm of possibilities thanks to the technical innovations here developed.

With this project we reach the sufficient technological readiness level so as to open up opportunities as following steps for the participation in next funding schemes to reach commercial stage and bankability.
Having the support of the EIB through the equity component and their role as advisor will help us reach this goal in a more efficient manner.

MSU