CO2 utilisation focused on market relevant dimethyl ether production, via 3D printed reactor and solid oxide cell based technologies

Currently, DME is commercially produced through an indirect, two-step process involving the production of methanol and its subsequent dehydration. This process is energy intensive and requires substantial capital and infrastructure investments. CO2Fokus will demonstrate the viability of a single-step process involving the direct and continuous synthesis of DME from industrial CO2 and H2 in a more efficient way. The project will develop cutting-edge technology able to directly convert industrial CO2 into DME, a valuable gas extensively used in the chemical and energy sectors fostering an alternative to fossil fuel derived feedstock by: employing innovative 3D printed multichannel catalytic reactors with > 30 tubes, > 1500 N L/h CO2/H2 feed, > 30 % CO2 conversion optimising solid oxide electrolyser cells with a power consumption of ca. 3.5 kW in co-electrolysis mode and 50 % conversion. integrating and testing them in an industrial environment of large industrial CO2 point sources