Industrial utilization of carbon dioxide (CO2)

The chapter presents the various aspects of the utilization of CO2 (technological, chemical, biotechnological) together with an analysis of the benefits derived from such practice. Conditions for correct use of CO2 are defined, and the potential of each technology is highlighted in terms of reducing emission into the atmosphere and lowering energy and/or material consumption, either directly (recycling of carbon) or indirectly, e.g. when the use of CO2 reduces the emission of products having a much higher climate change power (CCP) than CO2 itself. The potential utilization of CO2 as a tool to store excess or intermittent energies is also discussed, and the production of chemicals or energy products is presented, highlighting existing barriers to a full exploitation. The potential of enhanced fixation into aquatic biomass as a means of recyling CO2 and replacing fossil carbon in the production of chemicals or fuels for the transport sector is discussed. Emphasis is placed on the requirement for research into the potential for CO2 utilization to contribute to the reduction of its accumulation in the atmosphere. © 2010 Woodhead Publishing Limited All rights reserved.