Greening coal: breakthroughs and challenges in carbon capture and storage

Environ Sci Technol. 2011 Oct 15;45(20):8597-604. doi: 10.1021/es200510f. Epub 2011 Sep 29.

Abstract

Like it or not, coal is here to stay, for the next few decades at least. Continued use of coal in this age of growing greenhouse gas controls will require removing carbon dioxide from the coal waste stream. We already remove toxicants such as sulfur dioxide and mercury, and the removal of CO₂ is the next step in reducing the environmental impacts of using coal as an energy source (i.e., greening coal). This paper outlines some of the complexities encountered in capturing CO₂ from coal, transporting it large distances through pipelines, and storing it safely underground.

Publication types

  • Research Support, U.S. Gov't, Non-P.H.S.

MeSH terms

  • Air Pollution / prevention & control*
  • Carbon Dioxide*
  • Coal*
  • Environmental Monitoring

Substances

  • Coal
  • Carbon Dioxide