 |
|
Scientists enhance Mother Nature's carbon handling mechanism
November 07, 2007Taking a page from Nature herself, a team of researchers developed a method to enhance removal of carbon dioxide from the atmosphere and place it in the Earth's oceans for storage.
Unlike other proposed ocean sequestration processes, the new technology does not make the oceans more acid and may be beneficial to coral reefs. The process is a manipulation of the natural weathering of volcanic silicate rocks. Reporting in today's (Nov. 7) issue of Environmental Science and Technology, the Harvard and Penn State team explained their method.
"The technology involves selectively removing acid from the ocean in a way that might enable us to turn back the clock on global warming," says Kurt Zenz House, graduate student in Earth and planetary sciences, Harvard University. "Essentially, our technology dramatically accelerates a cleaning process that Nature herself uses for greenhouse gas accumulation."
In natural silicate weathering, carbon dioxide from the atmosphere dissolves in fresh water and forms weak carbonic acid. As the water percolates through the soil and rocks, the carbonic acid converts to a solution of alkaline carbonate salts. This water eventually flows into the ocean and increases its alkalinity. An alkaline ocean can hold dissolved carbon, while an acidic one will release the carbon back into the atmosphere. The more weathering, the more carbon is transferred to the ocean where some of it eventually becomes part of the sea bottom sediments.
"In the engineered weathering process we have found a way to swap the weak carbonic acid with a much stronger one (hydrochloric acid) and thus accelerate the pace to industrial rates," says House.
The researchers minimize the potential for environmental problems by combining the acid removal with silicate rock weathering mimicking the natural process. The more alkaline ocean can store carbon as bicarbonate, the most plentiful and innocuous form of carbon in the oceans.
According to House, this would allow removal of excess carbon dioxide from the atmosphere in a matter of decades rather than millennia.
Besides removing the greenhouse gas carbon dioxide from the atmosphere, this technique would counteract the continuing acidification of the oceans that threatens coral reefs and their biological communities. The technique is adaptable to operation in remote areas on geothermal or natural gas and is global rather than local. Unlike carbon dioxide scrubbers on power plants, the process can as easily remove naturally generated carbon dioxide as that produced from burning fossil fuel for power.
The researchers, Kurt House; Daniel P. Schrag, director, Harvard University Center for the Environment and professor of Earth and planetary sciences; Michael J. Aziz, the Gordon McKay professor of material sciences, all at Harvard University and Kurt House's brother, Christopher H. House, associate professor of geosciences, Penn State, caution that while they believe their scheme for reducing global warming is achievable, implementation would be ambitious, costly and would carry some environmental risks that require further study. The process would involve building dozens of facilities similar to large chlorine gas industrial plants, on volcanic rock coasts.
"This work shows how we can remove carbon dioxide on relevant timescales, but more work is be needed to bring down the cost and minimize other environmental effects," says Christopher H. House.
Penn State
In natural silicate weathering, carbon dioxide from the atmosphere dissolves in fresh water and forms weak carbonic acid. As the water percolates through the soil and rocks, the carbonic acid converts to a solution of alkaline carbonate salts. This water eventually flows into the ocean and increases its alkalinity. An alkaline ocean can hold dissolved carbon, while an acidic one will release the carbon back into the atmosphere. The more weathering, the more carbon is transferred to the ocean where some of it eventually becomes part of the sea bottom sediments.
"In the engineered weathering process we have found a way to swap the weak carbonic acid with a much stronger one (hydrochloric acid) and thus accelerate the pace to industrial rates," says House.
The researchers minimize the potential for environmental problems by combining the acid removal with silicate rock weathering mimicking the natural process. The more alkaline ocean can store carbon as bicarbonate, the most plentiful and innocuous form of carbon in the oceans.
According to House, this would allow removal of excess carbon dioxide from the atmosphere in a matter of decades rather than millennia.
Besides removing the greenhouse gas carbon dioxide from the atmosphere, this technique would counteract the continuing acidification of the oceans that threatens coral reefs and their biological communities. The technique is adaptable to operation in remote areas on geothermal or natural gas and is global rather than local. Unlike carbon dioxide scrubbers on power plants, the process can as easily remove naturally generated carbon dioxide as that produced from burning fossil fuel for power.
The researchers, Kurt House; Daniel P. Schrag, director, Harvard University Center for the Environment and professor of Earth and planetary sciences; Michael J. Aziz, the Gordon McKay professor of material sciences, all at Harvard University and Kurt House's brother, Christopher H. House, associate professor of geosciences, Penn State, caution that while they believe their scheme for reducing global warming is achievable, implementation would be ambitious, costly and would carry some environmental risks that require further study. The process would involve building dozens of facilities similar to large chlorine gas industrial plants, on volcanic rock coasts.
"This work shows how we can remove carbon dioxide on relevant timescales, but more work is be needed to bring down the cost and minimize other environmental effects," says Christopher H. House.
Penn State
Carbon Dioxide Current Events and Carbon Dioxide News RSSChemists describe solar energy progress and challenges, including the 'artificial leaf'
Scientists are making progress toward development of an "artificial leaf" that mimics a real leaf's chemical magic with photosynthesis - but instead converts sunlight and water into a liquid fuel such as methanol for cars and trucks.
Texas A&M prof to predict weather on Mars
Is there such a thing as "weather" on Mars? There are some doubts, considering the planet's atmosphere is only 1 percent as dense as that of the Earth.
Report on US-China collaboration on carbon capture and sequestration
Lawrence Livermore National Laboratory's Julio Friedmann, in collaboration with the Center for American Progress, the Asia Society Center and with partner Monitor Group, today released the report, "A Roadmap for U.S.-China Collaboration on Carbon Capture and Sequestration."
Study gives clearer picture of how land-use changes affect U.S. climate
Researchers say regional surface temperatures can be affected by land use, suggesting that local and regional strategies, such as creating green spaces and buffer zones in and around urban areas, could be a tool in addressing climate change.
Laser etching safe alternative for labeling grapefruit
Laser labeling of fruit and vegetables is a new, patented technology in which a low-energy carbon dioxide laser beam is used to label, or "etch" information on produce, thereby eliminating the need for common sticker-type labels.
Iron controls patterns of nitrogen fixation in the Atlantic
Scientists including researchers from the National Oceanography Centre, Southampton and the University of Essex have discovered that interactions between iron supply, transported through the atmosphere from deserts, and large-scale oceanic circulation control the availability of a crucial nutrient, nitrogen, in the Atlantic.
North America automobile sector bottom of 'world sustainability league'
The study, entitled Sustainable Value in Automobile Manufacturing, looks at the sustainability performance of 17 leading car manufacturers worldwide between 1999 and 2007.
Interactions with aerosols boost warming potential of some gases
For decades, climate scientists have worked to identify and measure key substances -- notably greenhouse gases and aerosol particles -- that affect Earth's climate.
Volcanoes played pivotal role in ancient ice age, mass extinction
Researchers here have discovered the pivotal role that volcanoes played in a deadly ice age 450 million years ago. Perhaps ironically, these volcanoes first caused global warming -- by releasing massive amounts of carbon dioxide into the atmosphere. When they stopped erupting, Earth's climate was thrown off balance, and the ice age began.
Ocean acidification may contribute to global shellfish decline
Relatively minor increases in ocean acidity brought about by high levels of carbon dioxide have significant detrimental effects on the growth, development, and survival of hard clams, bay scallops, and Eastern oysters, according to researchers at Stony Brook University's School of Marine and Atmospheric Sciences.
More Carbon Dioxide Current Events and Carbon Dioxide News Articles
 |
First Alert CO600 Plug In Carbon Monoxide Alarm by First Alert Carbon monoxide (CO) is the leading cause of accidental poisoning deaths in America, yet many people don't know they are suffering from CO poisoning until its too late. Since symptoms of CO poisoning are like the flu, you might not even know you're in danger at first. That's why a carbon monoxide alarm is an excellent way to protect your family. It can detect the CO you can't see, smell or taste in the air. The First Alert CO600 carbon monoxide alarm uses an electrochemical carbon monoxide sensor-the most accurate technology available. Installation is as simple as plugging it in to any wall outlet. The test/silence button both silences a non-threatening alarm and allows you to test the unit's functionality. The unit monitors and re-alarms if carbon monoxide levels persist sounding a... |
 |
Carbon Dioxide Recovery and Utilization by M. Aresta (Editor) Text provides a resource on the carbon dioxide sources and market at the European Union level, with reference to the world situation. For scientists and professionals. |
 |
Indoor Air Quality Meter - CO2, Temperature, Relative Humidity by SenseLife The SenseLife CO2 Monitor lets you quickly, accurately, and inexpensively test CO2 levels around your home. Move it from room to room to test CO2 levels in your house. It can reveal if your home's heating, ventilation, and air conditioning system is operating properly. High CO2 levels indicate inadequate or closed return air ducts. Low CO2 levels indicate too much fresh air and wasted heating or cooling energy. In addition to its CO2 meter, the TIM8 has an accurate digital thermometer and relative humidity indicator. Use it to test your child's bedrooms. Low humidity in the winter can lead to nosebleeds, coughs, and sore throats. High humidity in the summer can result in mold and even structural damage. Do you own a greenhouse? Increasing CO2 makes flowering plants, vegetables, and... |
 |
First Alert Smoke and Carbon Monoxide Alarm - SC01CN3 by First Alert First Alert SCO1CN3 smoke and carbon monoxide detector uses ionization method of smoke detection. It features a test button and a silence button that temporarily quiets both the carbon monoxide and smoke alarms. When battery is low, the warning "chirp" and light flashes. The alarm makes different horn sounds and light flash patterns for carbon monoxide and smoke. |
 |
Fire Extinguisher Carbon Dioxide 5 Lb. by Global Industrial KIDDE CARBON DIOXIDE EXTINGUISHER Effective for Class B and C fires. Environmentally safe, Co2 gas dissipates quickly leaving no residue and won't contaminate food, valuable materials or electronics. Seamless aluminum cylinder has a durable epoxy paint finish. Long-lasting nickelchrome plated brass valve with stainless steel handle and lever. Includes a heavy-duty wall hanger. 5 year warranty. Non-Returnable. 5 pounds UL Rating: 5B:C |
 |
Kidde 900-0107 Plug-In Carbon Monoxide Alarm by Kidde Safety 110V Non-Digital AC Carbon Monoxide Alarm With Direct Plug Alarm Only 85 Decibel Alarm Test Reset Button To Reset Alarm Advanced Electrochemical Sensor 5 Year Warranty UL Listed To 2,034 Standard Clam Shell |
 |
5 lb Carbon Dioxide Cylinder (5lb CO2 Tank) This cylinder is able to hold 5 lbs of CO2. It is constructed of light weight aluminum with matte aluminum finish. CO2 Cylinders are shipped empty. You can fill your CO2 cylinder at a local welding shop or fire safety supply. Features: * Brand New * Aluminum * High Quality |
 |
Nellcor Easy Cap II CO2 Detector, Adult by Puritan Bennett For years, hospital and emergency medical services clinicians have relied on Nellcor Easy Cap II and Pedi Cap CO2 Detectors to verify proper endotracheal tube placement. These CO2 detectors assure you that your patient is intubated properly right from the start - and remains that way during transport. The easy-to-use CO2 detector attaches directly to the ET tube and responds quickly to exhaled CO2 with a simple color change from purple to yellow. Easy Cap II and Pedi Cap CO2 Detectors are an economical, yet invaluable airway management tool. Features of Nellcor Easy Cap II CO2 Detector: Reliable carbon dioxide detectors help verify endotracheal tube placement. Responds quickly to exhaled CO2 with a simple color change from purple to yellow. Breath-to-breath response. ... |
 |
Pulmocare Liquid Nutrition for Pulmonary Patients, Vanilla, Case of 24 Cans- each 8 Fluid Ounces (237 ml) by Pulmocare Pulmocare liquid vanilla nutritional supplement - A high calorie, low-carbohydrate liquid formula, designed to help reduce carbon dioxide production, thereby minimizing CO2 retention. Lactose and gluten free. For supplemental or sole-source nutrition. Oral or tube feeding. |
|
Carbon Dioxide Maoi (Primary Contributor) |
| © 2009 BrightSurf.com |