RECYCLING CARBON DIOXIDE VIA CAPTURE AND TEMPORARY STORAGE TO PRODUCE RENEWABLE FUELS AND DERIVED PRODUCTS

摘要

A method for recycling a carbon-containing greenhouse gas emissions such as carbon dioxide and methane (natural gas) or a hydrocarbon homolog thereof. The method includes the steps of capturing the emissions, sequestering them in an underground or undersea storage area, withdrawing them from the storage area after storage therein, and converting them to carbon-containing compounds such as methanol, dimethyl ether and derived products. Greenhouse gases such as carbon dioxide and methane are chemically recycled to provide a permanent and inexhaustible supply of carbon-containing fuels or products, which subsequently can be combusted or used without increasing the carbon dioxide content of the atmosphere. The method is thus effective in neutralizing or reducing the carbon footprint due to human activities related to combustion or use of carbon-containing fuels while providing a repeatedly sustainable carbon source.