While coal is the least expensive fuel for power generation, it is also the most carbon-intensive fuel source. In an increasingly carbon-constrained world, we’re working to develop new technologies to reduce the amount of CO₂ released from coal-fired power plants. Traditional carbon reduction technologies require extensive equipment modifications that are often cost-prohibitive. UK CAER is exploring a novel process known as Chemical Looping Combustion (CLC) as a low-cost solution to more effectively reduce CO₂.

In an effort to promote water reuse and decrease the energetic demands of traditional water treatment mechanisms, UK CAER is working to develop next generation separation technologies that can handle a growing list of process needs. UK CAER is currently developing modular, intensified water treatment and separation technology for flue gas desulfurization (FGD) wastewater, enhanced water recovery (EWR) from saline aquifers at CO₂ injection sites, and zeolite dewatering of various complex wastewater and process streams.

Our 5,800 sq. foot coal/biomass to liquids (CBTL) research facility provides the scientific and industrial community with an affordable testing ground for new concepts. Our researchers evaluate the commercial and technical viability of advanced CBTL technologies. In particular, we explore the environmental considerations, including how to manage and reduce carbon dioxide emissions from these plants.

Since starting solvent based, post-combustion CO₂ capture research in 2008, UK CAER has distinguished itself and is internationally recognized as an expert in the field of post-combustion carbon capture research by demonstrating significant breakthroughs in process intensification, two-stage solvent regeneration, heat integration, and advanced solvent development. Using this four-pronged approach to lower both capital and operating expenses the cost of electricity with CO₂ capture is reduced by 47%, incrementally from the standard reference case of $67/tonne CO₂, to $35/tonne CO₂.