CarbFixi

CarbFixi is a proposed method for geological carbon sequestration. The core concept involves injecting carbon dioxide (CO2) into basaltic rock formations and accelerating its natural mineralization process. This process converts gaseous CO2 into stable carbonate minerals, effectively locking it away underground.

The CarbFixi project, initiated in Iceland, utilizes the country's unique geological conditions. Basaltic rocks are rich in minerals like calcium and magnesium, which readily react with CO2 in the presence of water. The injected CO2, dissolved in water, percolates through the porous basalt. Over time, chemical reactions occur, forming solid carbonate minerals such as calcite and dolomite.

The natural mineralization process can take thousands of years. CarbFixi aims to significantly speed this up by optimizing the injection conditions, including the CO2 concentration and flow rate. Researchers are studying the long-term stability of these mineralized carbonates and the potential environmental impacts of large-scale implementation. The method is seen as a potential solution for mitigating climate change by permanently removing CO2 from the atmosphere. Challenges include the energy required for CO2 capture and transport, the availability of suitable geological sites, and the scalability of the technology.