Direct air capture-assisted sustainable fuel solution in maritime sector: a carbon footprint perspective
Shuangjun Li, Zhenyu Du, Junyao Wang, Hao Wang, Xiangkun Elvis Cao, Runkai Chen, Yujia Pang, Shuai Deng, Ondřej Mašek, Xiangzhou Yuan, Ki Bong Lee
Abstract
Abstract Carbon emissions reduction within the maritime sector is pivotal for realizing zero-carbon goals and mitigating climate impacts. Adopting renewable carbon fuels presents a potent strategy. It is necessary to have a comprehensive understanding of its negative carbon attributes and enduring contributions to future development based on carbon footprint assessment. By using the CO 2 captured through direct air capture (DAC) technology and the H 2 obtained via water electrolysis as feedstock, electro-methanol (e-methanol) can be produced under renewable energy-driven conditions. Owing to the environmental benefits and economic feasibility of e-methanol, we highlight its potential as a practical alternative to traditional fossil fuel-based technical scenarios. A quantitative analysis of this integrated system from a carbon footprint perspective allows for an environmental sustainability assessment. According to predictions, scaled-up usage of the system can reduce the maritime sector's contribution to global carbon emissions by half by 2050. Graphical Abstract