Time: 2024-07-31
The global chemical industry faces a significant challenge in reducing carbon dioxide emissions due to manufacturing processes . Currently , the industry releases nearly a billion tonnes of CO2 annually , surpassing even Australia 's national output . Chemicals used in various products , from fertilizers to plastics , require high energy inputs , leading to significant emissions . However , Australian chemists propose a groundbreaking solution using liquid metals with atomic intelligence.
Liquid metals like tin , bismuth , mercury , and gallium offer a futuristic approach to chemical engineering . These metals have low melting points , eliminating the need for high temperatures , and possess unique properties at the atomic level . They can act as powerful catalysts , enhancing chemical reactions and enabling the production of complex products like fuel , pharmaceuticals , fertilizers , and plastics . By introducing liquid metals into industrial processes , reactions can occur more dynamically , leading to greater control over the outcomes.
Professor Kourosh Kalantar - Zadeh from the University of Sydney highlights the potential of liquid metals in reducing carbon - intensive processes like ammonia production for fertilizers and addressing plastic pollution . These metals can break down polymer chains in plastics into useful molecules , offering a sustainable solution to plastic waste . Additionally , liquid metals can play a crucial role in hydrogen production by preventing the formation of carbon dioxide , making the process environmentally friendly and cost - effective.
Despite efforts to transition to renewable energy sources , chemical production remains a significant contributor to greenhouse gas emissions . Approximately 10 - 15 percent of total emissions come from chemical factories , highlighting the need for innovative solutions . Researchers have developed a roadmap to transform chemical processing by leveraging liquid metals for catalyzing reactions at lower temperatures . This approach replaces energy - intensive processes that rely on solid catalysts , offering a more sustainable and efficient method of production.
Professor Kalantar - Zadeh emphasizes the importance of tapping into the " atomic intelligence " of liquid metals to drive reactions and revolutionize the chemical industry . By dissolving catalytic metals at low temperatures , liquid metals create alloys that promote chemical reactions with minimal energy input . This approach not only reduces emissions but also opens up new possibilities for creating a wide range of products , from plastics to fuels.
In conclusion , the integration of liquid metals into chemical processing represents a significant advancement in sustainable industrial practices . By harnessing the unique properties of these metals , researchers aim to reshape the future of chemical engineering and reduce the environmental impact of manufacturing processes . Liquid metals offer a promising avenue for achieving cleaner and more efficient production methods across various sectors of the chemical industry.
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