A new research project aims to make industry more waste-free and up-grade the materials through chemical looping gasification (CLG)

TalTech researchers, in cooperation with foreign partners, are investigating and developing a novel CO₂ capture technology for the upgrading of oil shale (OS) and biomass into feedstocks.

The project focuses on developing the Chemical Looping Gasification (CLG) process, an innovative CO₂ capture technology designed to process oil shale and biomass into valuable raw materials for the chemical and construction industries. The main objective is to evaluate the CLG process for producing hydrogen (H₂) and other gases suitable for use in the cement industry, while also maximizing the use of OS.

If the project is successful, it would mean that in several industries hopefully there will no longer be waste heaps that pollute or affect the environment in the current volume. For Estonia, this would mean a faster climate neutrality and a race towards the current waste in the future.

In the face of global climate challenges, the need for innovative solutions to combat carbon emissions has never been more pressing. The aforementioned innovative process can significantly reduce carbon emissions while providing a more efficient and sustainable way to produce hydrogen and other valuable chemicals. The purpose of the study is to develop the known CLG process, which would enable the establishment of a waste-free chemical and construction materials industrial sector by “valorising” oil shale and biomass, including wood waste.

According to the research group, the project aims to produce gaseous products (mainly H₂) for the chemical industry and solid mineral residue suitable for the cement industry, to ensure full utilization of OS.

What is Chemical Looping Gasification?

Chemical looping gasification is a process that uses metal oxides as oxygen carriers to facilitate the conversion of carbon-based materials, such as oil shale, biomass, or waste, into syngas—a mixture of hydrogen, carbon monoxide, and carbon dioxide.

Unlike traditional gasification methods, which require a direct supply of oxygen, CLG provides the oxygen required for gasification through the cyclic oxidation and reduction of metal oxides. “This not only increases the efficiency of the process but also enables inherent carbon capture, making it a more environmentally friendly alternative,” explain the authors.

Main objective and expected results

A key goal of the project is to raise awareness among the next generation of scientists and engineers about the significance of local resources and their potential for sustainable, eco-friendly use.

Reducing CO₂ emissions is a goal that requires either capturing CO₂ or creating new technologies to change how something is produced. The current research topic focuses on the investigation of the new CLG process (see the diagram of the working principle of the process) with the aim of simultaneously producing both hydrogen (H₂) and cement additive from oil shale and wood waste. The expected results include identifying optimal process conditions, evaluating industrially relevant parameters, and exploring the simultaneous exploitation of local resources.

The application of technology is contributing to the creation of a more resource-efficient and economically viable system. By harnessing CLG technology, industries can minimize waste, where both ordinary and industrial waste are not thrown away, but the “repurposing material” are given added value to reduce reliance on raw materials, and foster a cycle of continuous value creation, ultimately supporting long-term sustainability and growth.

A step for the Estonian economy and companies

In addition, efficient and resource-efficient use of oil shale, the project supports cross-sector and interdisciplinary cooperation and increases innovation capacity of Estonian companies.

Scientists and experts in the fields of chemistry, energy, materials and construction are involved in the project “Valorisation of oil shale into raw materials for industries”, TEM-TA73. The CLG project, which is an important step in the global effort to transition to cleaner energy solutions, will last from 2024 to 2028 and is financed by the Estonian Research Council.

More about the project FROM HERE.

This article was written by Kadriann Tamm & Mais Hanna Suleiman Baqain from TalTech (Tallinn University of Technology).

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