The Need
Industrial syngas and hydrogen production processes are highly energy-intensive and contribute significantly to carbon emissions due to reliance on fossil fuel combustion. Existing methods require multiple unit operations, resulting in low efficiency and high operational costs. There is a critical need for a process that simultaneously captures CO₂ from flue gas and converts it into valuable products, reducing the carbon footprint and improving overall process economics.

The Technology
This patented technology, developed by OSU engineers, utilizes a novel chemical looping system that captures CO₂ directly from flue gas and converts it into CO via redox reactions, while simultaneously producing syngas and hydrogen. The process employs composite metal oxides as oxygen and CO₂ carriers, operating across multiple reactors with tunable configurations. The system integrates external heat sources, including renewables, to enable auto-thermal operation and maximize energy efficiency.

Commercial Applications
• Syngas and hydrogen production for chemical and fuel industries
• Carbon capture and utilization (CCU) for power generation and industrial plants
• Synthetic fuel manufacturing
• Decarbonization of petrochemical and refining operations

Benefits/Advantages
• Dramatically reduces carbon emissions
• Integrates CO₂ capture and conversion in a single, flexible process
• Compatible with a wide range of hydrocarbon feedstocks
• High conversion efficiency and selectivity
• Modular reactor design allows for process customization and scalability