Catalytic reduction of gaseous CO2 to solid Carbon - towards zero emission steelmaking (CatCO2)

Important results from the project

The study successfully achieved its objectives, demonstrating the feasibility of converting CO₂ into solid carbon through a two-step catalytic process. The project enhanced collaboration between academia and industry, generated strong industrial interest, and its results supports a potential initiation of a pilot project. The outcomes contributes to the advancement of low-emission technologies and present a promising route for industrial decarbonization, particularly within the steel sector.

Expected long term effects

The project is expected to accelerate development of CO₂ valorization, supporting the steel industry’s transition to zero emissions. By converting CO₂ into solid carbon, it lays the foundation for large-scale use and strengthens industry-research collaboration. The CatCO₂ pre-study shows strong potential to reduce greenhouse gas emissions and outperform other CCS methods. Follow-up projects could significantly impact emissions from steel and other industries where CO or CO₂ is a byproduct.

Approach and implementation

The project focused on a pre-study of CO₂ cracking to solid carbon. Polestar coordinated the project, ensuring communication, dissemination and strategic alignment and direction. SSAB, as potential end-user, assessed steelmaking applications and provided feedback. KTH conducted literature review, lab proof-of-concept tests, and evaluation. The work packages included coordination (WP1), CO₂-to-X review (WP2), lab trials (WP3), and techno-economic analysis with a full-scale proposal (WP4).