Carbon Dioxide Emissions and Polymer Development at Iconic Technologies

Jul 14, 2024

Lecture: Carbon Dioxide Emissions and Polymer Development at Iconic Technologies

Overview

Iconic Technologies is developing catalysts to turn CO2 into useful polymers.

Conex Catalyst

  • Function: Allows CO2 to act as a feedstock for making polymers or plastics
  • Mechanism: Reacts CO2 with a highly reactive hydrocarbon material (epoxide)
  • Activation Barrier: Lowers activation barrier for the reaction
  • Homogeneous Catalyst: Dissolves in liquid epoxide
  • Composition: Organic framework around two metal centers
    • Metals Used: Typically non-toxic metals like magnesium or zinc

Polymer Structure

  • Composition: Alternating polymer of ring-opened epoxide (two carbon units with an oxygen) and CO2
  • Linkage: Alternating hydrocarbon with carbonate linkage

Use of CO2 from Different Sources

  • Purified CO2: Typically used from a cylinder for studies
  • Carbon Capture and Storage (CCS) CO2: Can be used without purification
    • Advantages: Reduces transport and purification costs, increases efficiency
    • Study Results: No difference in polymer quality between purified CO2 and CCS CO2

Benefits and Potential Impact

  • Revenue Stream: Using captured CO2 as feedstock creates a potential revenue stream
  • Feedstock Replacement: Replaces expensive petrochemical feedstock with nearly free CO2
  • CO2 Savings: For every ton of CO2 incorporated into polymer, a further two tons are saved by avoided feedstock manufacture

Applications of Developed Polymers

  • Similarity to Traditional Polycarbonates: Similar properties but different structural properties can lead to varied applications (e.g., hardness, glass transition temperatures)
  • Primary Market: Polyols for polyurethanes
    • Description: Short-chain polymers with hydroxy functionality
    • Uses: Building blocks for polyurethanes
      • Mattresses, insulation foams, car seats, elastomers (e.g., trainer soles), resistant coatings (e.g., paints)

Future Prospects

  • Broad Range: Potential for very varied and broad properties and applications

Conclusion

Iconic Technologies’ development of catalysts to turn CO2 into useful polymers shows promise for both environmental and economic benefits, with vast applications in various industries.