BITS Pilani research has developed a catalyst that can convert captured industrial CO₂ into dimethyl ether (DME), a clean-burning fuel that could supplement LPG. BITS Pilani research is exploring a new way to turn industrial carbon dioxide emissions into a useful fuel. A team at the institute’s Hyderabad campus has developed a catalyst that converts captured CO₂ from power plants, steel factories and cement industries into dimethyl ether (DME), a clean-burning fuel that can supplement LPG. The project involved more than 10 undergraduate, postgraduate and doctoral students over five years. The technology has completed laboratory validation and is now moving towards pilot-scale development. Researchers combined two conventional reactions into a single-step process, potentially reducing engineering complexity and energy use. The project received around ₹45 lakh in funding from the Anusandhan National Research Foundation. If successfully scaled, the technology could help to address industrial carbon emissions while reducing dependence on imported LPG.
BITS Pilani Research Turns Factory CO₂ Into Cooking Fuel
