World’s First CO₂ to Methanol Plant launched by NTPC at Vindhyachal | Current Affairs | Vision IAS
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NTPC announced successful synthesis of CO2 captured from flue gas with hydrogen produced from a Proton Exchange Membrane (PEM) electrolyzer, which was then converted into methanol.

  • NTPC has also developed its first indigenous methanol synthesis catalyst.
  • It is considered to be a historic step in carbon management and sustainable fuel production.

About Methanol (CH3OH)

  • Also known as methyl/wood alcohol, it is the simplest alcohol and mixes completely with water. 
  • It's a clear, colorless, flammable liquid with a distinctive odour similar to ethanol (drinking alcohol).
The image illustrates the process of converting CO₂ into methanol in a plant. It is divided into four main steps:  Capture and Purification of CO₂: CO₂ is captured from industrial processes or directly from the air and then purified. Production of Low-Carbon-Intensity Hydrogen (H₂): Hydrogen is produced through the electrolysis of water, using renewable electricity to ensure low carbon intensity. Conversion of CO₂ to Carbon Monoxide (CO): CO₂ is converted into CO through a reaction with hydrogen gas (H₂). Conversion of CO to Methanol: The final step involves converting CO into methanol.

About Methanol (CH3OH)

  • Also known as methyl/wood alcohol, it is the simplest alcohol and mixes completely with water. 
  • It's a clear, colorless, flammable liquid with a distinctive odour similar to ethanol (drinking alcohol).

Benefits of CO₂-to-Methanol Technology

  • Lower energy demand and cost for production of methanol as compared to conventional processes.
  • Carbon Capture and Utilization (CCU): addresses CO₂ emissions by capturing it from flue gas of coal based power plants etc
  • Strengthen India’s vision of ‘Methanol Economy’ and help in meeting Paris Climate Change Goals 
  • Reduce India's dependence on oil imports and curb the curbs pollution from electricity sector 
  • Energy Storage: It can be stored and transported more efficiently than hydrogen (less flammable than hydrogen).
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