Description:
Market Opportunity
Harnessing the power of geothermal energy presents a sustainable alternative to dwindling fossil fuels for electricity and heating. Utilizing geothermal wells not only facilitates access to natural hot water and steam, but also enables the capture and utilization of emitted carbon dioxide for producing valuable compounds like methanol, optimizing energy use and mitigating environmental impacts.
USC Solution
USC researchers have developed a method to produce methanol exclusively from the inherent energy of geothermal sources. This technique involves isolating carbon dioxide and generating hydrogen from geothermal water or steam, which are then converted into methanol. This streamlined process, powered solely by geothermal energy, ensures self-sustained, efficient production of methanol and its derivatives, promoting an environmentally conscious approach to energy and chemical synthesis.
Value Proposition
- Sustainable energy from natural geothermal sources
- Efficient use of resources
- Versatile product output past methanol
Stage of Development
- Proof of concept demonstrated
- Available for licensing
Applications
- Production of methanol and its byproducts