In a bid to combat climate change and meet the growing demand for sustainable alternatives, OXCCU, a company stemming from Oxford University, is blazing a trail in the realm of carbon-based fuels. Their innovative approach, outlined at London’s Sustainable Aviation Fuel Supply Chain Initiative, offers a promising solution amidst a backdrop of rising concerns among climate scientists.
A recent Guardian study paints a stark picture of climate pessimism, with experts predicting global temperatures could soar beyond 2.5°C above preindustrial levels. Amidst this somber forecast, the quest for sustainable energy sources has never been more critical. However, Andrew Symes, CEO of OXCCU, argues that carbon-based fuels will retain their relevance in certain sectors like chemicals, plastics, and long-distance transportation.
While renewable energy and hydrogen hold promise for a zero-emission future, Symes contends that they may not entirely supplant carbon-based fuels, particularly in aviation. With hydrogen and electric flight technologies still in nascent stages, biofuels offer a bridge solution, albeit with constraints regarding land use and feedstock availability.
OXCCU’s breakthrough lies in its circular economy approach to CO2-based fuels. By harnessing atmospheric CO2 and combining it with hydrogen, the company pioneers the production of e-fuels, chemicals, and plastics. What sets OXCCU apart is its proprietary catalyst, enabling a single-step process that outstrips the energy efficiency and cost-effectiveness of traditional methods like Fischer-Tropsch.
Drawing parallels with Air Company, renowned for its single-step process, OXCCU aims to scale its technology globally. Plans are underway to showcase its efficacy through demonstration plants, starting with one at Oxford Airport this year. With Series B funding on the horizon, OXCCU envisions establishing a commercial plant by 2028, marking a significant stride towards a sustainable future in aviation and beyond.
SOURCE: https://www.oxccu.com/