Progress
Our project had half of the work completed by a team in 2012, so we reviewed their work records to understand where we should start. Beyond the paper provided by our sponsor, we found a new one that could guide our thinking and research. Additionally, we have reached out to the physics department to seek support with equipment and lab space. After several weeks of work, we have developed some insights.
Points of Consideration
Theory
Chemical Breakdown of CO2: The method is working to decompose CO2 to carbon and oxygen by supplying a high voltage. However, this implies huge spending of energy since CO2 is very stable-a condition in which usually more energy is needed for the conversion than can go back into the system of a car exhaust.
Producing Technologies
Ionic breeze and Van de Grrraff generator are some other technologies that can be described as the high-voltage producing techniques to develop ions that would interact with CO2 molecules. However, efficiency and practicality in vehicular applications are slumping.
The Issues Are Given Due Consideration
Energy
The energy needed to ionize CO2 is vast. It would not be possible to undertake this using the alternator of the car without stressing out the vehicle's electrical system.
Discharges
The production of ozone, as one byproduct of high voltage methods, raises concerns about safety as well as challenges of environmental compliance.
Efficiency and Expense
Achieving even a moderate level of efficiency (as low as approximately 5% in ionization) may fail to make a case for an efficient technology system because current catalytic converters are quite effective at managing emissions.
Step-by-Step Approach
1. Review of the Literature and Current Technologies
Look into previous efforts: Research studies from institutions such as DelQ University and the University of Michigan to trace some successful CO2- reducing methods.
Review existing technologies in carbon capture like amine scrubbing and membrane separation to see viable avenues.
2. Defining the Core Concept
Method of Decomposition: Research high-voltage discharge methods for CO2 decomposition. Although plasma arc technology seems promising, it requires enormous amounts of energy.
Management of Byproducts: Design secondary systems for the neutralization or capture of harmful byproducts like ozone and carbon monoxide.
3. Prototype Development
Designing the Filter: Develop a schematic design combining a high-voltage generator with a containment chamber for CO2.
4. Initial Trials
Scaling Down: Experiments in controlled environments to test breakdown of CO2. Utilization of gas detection sensors to monitor outputs.
Energy Measurement: Record the amount of energy input versus gas output to determine the level of efficiency.
5. Refinement
Optimization of Energy Input: Examination of how little energy is to be used for effective breakdown of CO2. Use of any catalysts or temperature control to lower boundaries of energy.
Incorporation of Negative Pressure: Designing systems taking advantage of negative pressure to allow gas flow into the breakdown zone.
6. Scale-Up Consideration
Integration into Vehicles: How can the system be integrated into current vehicle designs without compromising safety and performance?
Test Runs with a Set of Vehicles: Reality testing on a small number of vehicles in order to collect data on antecedent effectiveness.
7. Legality and Safety
Environmental Regulations: Work towards conformity to set emission standards.
Safety Protocols: Development of protocols regarding safe handling of the high-voltage device and by- products.
8. Commercial Viability
Economic Analysis: Consideration of cost for mass-producing the device; market interest; potential partnership with automobile makers.
Perceptive Consumerism: Survey public acceptance of novel devices for emissions improvements.
Conclusion
Though a theoretical premise exists for a CO2-separation filter for automobiles, technical, practical, and economic obstacles have to be surmounted. An interdisciplinary cooperation among the chemists, engineers, and environmental scientists is critical for the iterative cycle of constant improvement of the design of the vehicle and workable solutions. Only ongoing research, prototyping, and public familiarity can ascertain the commercial viability of this innovation.