Kilkenny Firm Partners with NEG8 Carbon for Groundbreaking DAC Project

A pivotal agreement has been established between NEG8 Carbon and Kilkenny-based Prochem Engineering to conduct an engineering study for Ireland’s first full-scale Direct Air Capture (DAC) system. This landmark project aims to attract and capture approximately 50 tonnes of carbon dioxide (CO2) annually, marking a significant step forward in combating climate change.

The full-scale DAC module will be constructed at NEG8 Carbon’s headquarters in Waterford. This initiative represents the first tangible implementation of NEG8 Carbon’s innovative electrostatic DAC technology, designed specifically to capture CO2 from the atmosphere. The technology is intended to support industries in achieving their net-zero emissions targets while addressing the urgent challenges posed by climate change.

Collaboration to Drive Innovation

The engineering study agreement with Prochem Engineering signifies a crucial advancement in NEG8’s mission to refine its unique technology. According to Dr. John Breen, Chief Technology Officer at NEG8 Carbon, the 50 tonnes per annum unit will serve as a validation of their engineered carbon capture capabilities. “This technology will support industries and governments in their drive to net-zero and beyond to negative carbon emissions,” he stated.

Prochem Engineering, known for its specialist engineering expertise, expressed pride in contributing to this significant carbon capture initiative. Michael Kent, Director at Prochem, emphasized the collaboration’s importance in addressing global warming and promoting environmental sustainability. “This partnership reflects our shared commitment to deliver innovative, sustainable engineering solutions that foster meaningful environmental progress,” Kent remarked.

Technology with Global Implications

NEG8 Carbon’s electrostatic DAC technology operates by drawing air and passing it over a specifically designed sorbent system that effectively attracts and captures CO2 molecules. The captured carbon can then either be permanently stored underground or transformed into climate-neutral products, including Sustainable Aviation Fuel.

The collaboration between NEG8 Carbon and Prochem Engineering not only highlights the engineering capabilities present in Ireland but also underscores the potential for scalable carbon capture solutions that could be deployed globally. As both companies move forward with the project, they aim to set a precedent for future initiatives dedicated to reducing greenhouse gas emissions and fostering a lower-carbon future.