Electrochemical Innovation to Combat Ocean Acidification, CO2 Emissions

A groundbreaking electrochemical innovation shows potential in addressing the critical issue of ocean acidification, presenting a glimmer of hope for safeguarding the delicate balance of marine ecosystems.

Pioneering a Breakthrough Technology

Developed through a collaborative effort between McMaster University, the University of Toronto, the Palo Alto Research Center, and X Development, the breakthrough BMED system has shown significant potential in combating carbon dioxide buildup in the atmosphere.

Spearheaded by the Carbon to Sea initiative, Interesting Engineering reported that this cutting-edge solution could have profound implications for addressing the detrimental impacts of climate change on our planet's oceans.

Considering the alarming surge in CO2 emissions witnessed over recent decades, the timely development of this technology offers a ray of hope in the fight against environmental degradation. The surge in ocean acidity, soaring by 30%, has emerged as a pressing concern, casting a shadow over marine ecosystems, notably coral reefs.

Only 45% of carbon dioxide emissions linger in the atmosphere, with the remainder sequestered through two primary cycles: the biological carbon cycle, which stores CO2 in vegetation and soil, and the aqueous carbon cycle, which is responsible for absorbing CO2 into the oceans. Each cycle accounts for 25% and 30% of emitted CO2, respectively.

In response, scientists have embarked on a quest to tackle this mounting challenge, exploring a spectrum of strategies. Among these is ocean alkalinity enhancement, a novel approach designed to rebalance the ocean's pH levels while siphoning excess CO2 from the atmosphere.

Traditionally, the direct introduction of alkali minerals into the ocean has been contemplated, yet the sheer magnitude required for this method presents formidable obstacles.

Estimates suggest that an equivalent mass to roughly eight thousand Empire State Buildings' worth of alkaline substance would be needed for this endeavor. This barely begins to address the IPCC emissions targets, signaling that much more action is needed to meet their goals.

Introducing bipolar membrane electrodialysis, an innovative electrochemical method designed to address seawater acidity without requiring additional substances. Utilizing decarbonized energy, this approach offers a straightforward, adaptable, and potentially economical solution for carbon dioxide removal.

In 2015, a collaborative effort between the Palo Alto Research Center, X Development, and others resulted in the development of a small-scale BMED system, showcasing promising outcomes. Particularly noteworthy was its integration with existing infrastructure like desalination plants, amplifying its effectiveness.

Overcoming Challenges in Implementation

Despite its initial achievements, BMED technology faces certain barriers that hinder its widespread implementation. Challenges include the high expense and limited lifespan of specialized membranes.

Nevertheless, ongoing research endeavors aim to surmount these obstacles by developing scalable, ultra-thin membranes capable of efficiently extracting acidity while reducing overall production and operational expenses.

Several emerging companies, including Ebb Carbon, SeaO2, and Vesta, are delving into ocean carbon dioxide removal utilizing ocean alkalinity enhancement (OAE).

These ventures are attracting considerable interest from entrepreneurs. The effectiveness of OAE solutions largely depends on robust backing from a wide array of stakeholders, encompassing government entities, industries, non-profit groups, and investors.