Flue Gas to Methanol - Electrocatalytic Technology for Integrating CO2 into the Circular Economy
| Reference number | |
| Coordinator | CarbGen AB |
| Funding from Vinnova | SEK 1 950 000 |
| Project duration | June 2025 - May 2026 |
| Status | Ongoing |
| Venture | Impact Innovation Net Zero industry - Program-specific efforts |
Purpose and goal
The project aims to scale CarbGen’s Carbon Direct Conversion (CDC) technology from lab success (TRL 4) to industry readiness (TRL 7), converting directly CO2 from industrial flue gas into high-purity e-methanol. Through this pilot validation (5L), system optimization, and industrial evaluation with end-users, the project targets ≥70% CO₂ conversion efficiency and ≥95% pure methanol, supporting Sweden’s climate goals and enabling near future deployment at 500L and 5000L scales.
Expected effects and result
The project will deliver a detailed results on Carbon Direct Conversion (CDC) validation of a 5L pilot system at a biomass pyrolysis exhaust. The results will include optimized system performance, verified product (e-MeOH) quality, and a complete techno-economic and environmental assessment. Long-term effects include scalable deployment, reduced industrial emissions, circular carbon use, and strengthening Sweden’s position in sustainable industry & circular economy.
Planned approach and implementation
The project follows a three-phase plan: (1) build, and operate CarbGen´s 5L pilot system at RISE Piteå using flue gas generated from biomass pyrolysis and test carbon direct conversion, (2) optimize the system and validate e-methanol quality with industrial partners, (3) finalize the design and procurement plan for 500L and 5000L pilots with integration strategies. Activities involve testing, data analysis, and close collaboration with CIT, Essity, Perstorp, Copper Lavender and other partners.