Repair Carbon is developing carbon removal machines inspired by batteries

RepAir Carbon aims to reduce CO2 capture costs with battery-inspired technology.

: RepAir Carbon is innovating direct air capture technology using an approach inspired by batteries to lower costs from $600 to potentially $70-$80 per metric ton. The startup has secured a $15 million extension to its Series A funding led by Exantia Capital and Taranis Carbon Ventures. By employing an electrical process rather than heating solvents, RepAir's system can continuously regenerate while capturing CO2. They are actively exploring applications in gas turbines to mitigate data center emissions with strong developer interest.

RepAir Carbon, an innovative startup, is developing a new carbon capture technology inspired by battery mechanics. Their approach aims to significantly reduce the cost of capturing carbon dioxide to as low as $70 to $80 per metric ton. This dramatic price reduction is notable when compared to other methods, often costing around $600 per metric ton. The company recently raised a $15 million Series A extension led by Exantia Capital and Taranis Carbon Ventures, with additional support from Ormat Technologies and Repsol, and a $3 million grant from the Israeli Innovation Authority.

The core of RepAir's technology is its use of electricity, rather than heat, to facilitate the chemical reactions necessary for CO2 capture. The system, resembling a fuel cell but operating more like a battery, uses two electrodes separated by a membrane. As air or flue gas enters the chamber, it encounters a nickel-based electrode that, under electrical current, converts CO2 into negatively charged carbonate and bicarbonate ions. These ions pass through to a positively charged electrode where they revert to CO2 and hydroxide, with the CO2 being siphoned off for storage.

Amir Shiner, co-founder and CEO of RepAir, highlighted the advantages of their approach over traditional carbon capture technologies which typically require a regeneration process involving heating. RepAir's process can regenerate simultaneously as it captures CO2, potentially reducing the need for extra equipment and downtime found in conventional methods.

Not only does this method show promise for atmospheric carbon capture, but it is also being adapted for integration into gas turbines. This could be instrumental in reducing emissions from data centers, a sector showing significant interest in such solutions. "It’s early, but it’s something we’re working on and we have strong interest coming from that specific area," Shiner commented, signaling potential collaborations and developments in this field.

The momentum behind RepAir's promising technology is bolstered by their strategic financial backing and partnerships, which are paving the way for further advancements. This could mark a pivotal shift in carbon capture, positioning RepAir at the forefront of sustainable innovation in combating climate change.

Sources: TechCrunch, Israeli Innovation Authority.

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