CO2-Neutral or Negative Energy Storage for Transportation Utilizing Liquid Hydrocarbon Fuels

CO₂-Neutral or Negative Energy Storage for transportation Utilizing Liquid Hydrocarbon Fuels

NU 2019-207

INVENTORS

Scott Barnett*
Matthew Yunching Lu
Travis Schmauss

SHORT DESCRIPTION

This invention presents an integrated energy storage system that co-stores a renewable liquid hydrocarbon fuel and its CO₂-rich exhaust generated by a solid oxide fuel cell (SOFC), delivering a CO₂-neutral or negative solution for transportation. The system captures CO₂ on-board in a compact co-storage tank, aiding in emission reduction and potential fuel regeneration.

BACKGROUND

Transportation is a major contributor to global CO₂ emissions, and while alternatives like battery electric and hydrogen fuel cell vehicles are emerging, they face challenges in energy density, cost, and infrastructure. Renewable hydrocarbon fuels offer higher energy density, yet their use typically results in CO₂ emissions that must be managed. This invention addresses these challenges by integrating fuel conversion with on-board CO₂ capture, thereby mitigating emissions and reducing the need for complex atmospheric CO₂ extraction.

ABSTRACT

The disclosed technology supplies a motorized vehicle energy storage system that employs a device—typically a solid oxide fuel cell (SOFC)—to convert a liquid hydrocarbon or alcohol fuel into an exhaust containing CO₂with a specially designed co-storage tank, featuring a self-adjusting partition, that simultaneously stores both the pressurized fuel and the generated CO₂. This integrated approach not only minimizes on-board tank volume relative to conventional systems but also streamlines fuel conversion efficiency, enabling higher energy density and reducing overall vehicle weight. Additionally, the captured CO₂ can be off-loaded and recycled into renewable fuels, further enhancing the system’s sustainability.

APPLICATIONS

On-board Energy Storage: Integrated fuel conversion and CO₂ capture for cleaner transportation.
Hybrid Power Systems: Combined SOFCs with battery systems to enhance vehicle performance.
Renewable Fuel Regeneration: Utilization of captured CO₂ for conversion into renewable fuels.
Modular Storage Solutions: Adaptable, attachable modules for extended vehicle range.

ADVANTAGES

High Energy Density: Utilizes liquid hydrocarbon fuels that offer superior energy per unit volume.
Emission Reduction: Captures CO₂ on-board to achieve a neutral or negative carbon footprint.
Compact Design: Co-storage tanks are significantly smaller than traditional hydrogen storage systems.
Enhanced Efficiency: SOFC integration delivers conversion efficiencies of 50-60% versus conventional engines.
Renewable Fuel Cycle: Enables recycling of captured CO₂ into renewable fuel, reducing dependency on fossil fuels.

PUBLICATIONS