Episode 2: Equatic's Seawater Mineralization for Carbon Dioxide Removal (CDR)

What is Equatic?

Equatic is a company developing an electrochemical process for removing carbon dioxide (CO2) from the atmosphere and sequestering it in the ocean or on land. The process involves electrolyzing seawater to produce an alkaline stream and an acidic stream. The alkaline stream is reacted with CO2, resulting in the formation of dissolved bicarbonate and carbonate ions. The acidic stream is neutralized with rocks, releasing calcium and magnesium ions which further aid in CO2 mineralization.

How does Equatic's technology work?

Equatic's process consists of three main stages:

Electrolysis: Seawater is electrolyzed to generate an alkaline catholyte stream and an acidic anolyte stream.

Catholyte Processing: The alkaline catholyte stream is reacted with CO2 (captured from the air), forming dissolved bicarbonate and carbonate ions, effectively capturing and converting the CO2.

Anolyte Processing: The acidic anolyte stream is neutralized using ground rocks. This process releases calcium and magnesium ions back into the stream, returning the pH to its original level and enhancing the CO2 absorption capacity.

How does Equatic measure and verify its carbon removal?

Equatic employs several methods for accurate CO2 removal quantification:

Dissolved CDR Validation: Measuring the difference in dissolved inorganic carbon (DIC) between the seawater intake and outflow provides a direct measure of CO2 captured in the form of (bi)carbonate ions.

Gas Phase Analysis: Analyzing the CO2 concentration in the air before and after it enters the carbonation reactor allows for direct measurement of CO2 converted into bicarbonate ions.

Solid Phase Analysis: Analyzing the mineral composition of solid samples taken from the process allows for the calculation of CO2 sequestered in mineral form (e.g., calcium carbonate).

What are the environmental benefits of Equatic's technology?

Equatic's technology offers several environmental benefits:

CO2 Removal: It directly removes CO2 from the atmosphere, helping to mitigate climate change.

Ocean Alkalinity Enhancement: By increasing ocean alkalinity, the process enhances the ocean's capacity to absorb and store additional CO2.

Green Hydrogen Production: Electrolysis also produces green hydrogen, a clean energy source.

Where will Equatic's technology be deployed?

Equatic plans to deploy its technology both on land and potentially on offshore platforms. The first deployments include a test plant in Singapore and a commercial plant in Quebec. The company is committed to engaging with local communities and conducting thorough environmental impact assessments to ensure sustainable operations.