Hannover Messe 2019 Research: Saving CO2 efficiently

The Fraunhofer IKTS is working on concepts which will enable minimisation of CO2 emissions by electrolysis-supported reduction. They are intended, for example, for the steel sector.

In producing raw steel, significant quantities of CO2 arises as a by-product of conventional iron ore reduction. The Fraunhofer IKTS is currently developing a process with which it will be possible to reduce emissions of this gas. The special point: it will all run exclusively on renewable energies.

The team of development and technology specialists is therefore working on high-temperature electrolysis stacks (SOEC) capable of transforming not only water, but also the CO2 which is separated off anyway in the reduction process. The electrolyser therefore becomes an important connecting link between renewable energy sources and steel production. Preliminary research has already shown that the SOEC stacks have long-term stability over more than 4500 h.

Further research for the lime and cement industry

For application in the lime and cement industry, the Fraunhofer IKTS is also currently working on concept for membrane-supported CO2 separation as well as a two-stage process for using CO2. In the first stage, co-electrolysis produces a synthetic gas from water vapour and CO2. This is then transformed into waxes or long-chain alcohols.

Visit Fraunhofer-IKTS at Hannover Messe in Hall 27, Booth E45.

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