Traditionally hydrogen is generated from fossil feedstock and processes that emit significant amounts of CO2. Green and other colors of hydrogen hold significant potential and interest for decarbonization of sectors that have previously been difficult to decarbonize. This includes both existing applications (e.g., refining, feedstock for chemicals) as well as emerging applications (e.g., e-methanol, e-ammonia, e-SAF), as well as potential in direct use for carbon emission free combustion. Growing interest in low carbon intensity hydrogen has stemmed from mounting net zero pledges and decarbonization goals, and an increasing focus on the energy transition. Production options explored several global regions (US, China, Brazil, and Western Europe) and technologies covering thermochemical (biomass gasification), bio-methane reforming, carbon capture, electrolysis, and other advanced pathways from a technical, economic (cost of production model), and carbon intensity level—including breakeven values for emission reductions under carbon taxation scenarios.

CO2 dosing can be highly beneficial to greenhouse crop yields.  This white paper covers some of the environmentally-friendly ways that CO2 dosing can be combined with geothermal energy, solar power and sea water desalination to allow nutritious fresh food to be grown in arid coastal areas around the world.  Carbon capture and re-use, from sources such as refineries and bio-renewable fuels facilities, is also highlighted to ensure the sustainability of this growing method. 

The revolution in battery technologies has caused a sharp acceleration in the demand growth for lithium and the trend is expected to continue.  Producers and technology licensors have invested significantly in the development of newer lithium extraction technologies.  Nexant provides a brief analysis of the emerging technologies and a more in-depth case study looking at Nemaska Lithium.

The electric vehicle revolution is a game-changer and one of the major trends affecting the mineral and energy industries. Enigmatic elements such as lithium have seen massive publicity as a result and investors have flocked to Australia and South America.