Brand name SILICIUMX I love it! :)
PUREVAPTM QRR Zero CO2 Silicon Metal Advantage: A Closed Electrical Arc Furnace Design
The QRR
, by design, is a Closed Electric Arc Furnace (CEAF) with the ability to operate under controlled atmospheric conditions. This innovative furnace enables the semi-continuous feeding of Silica (SiO
2) and a carbon reductant, facilitating the production of 3N+ silicon in a single step. Notably, the QRR's design eliminates air infiltrations within the reactor, ensuring that the CO gas (“Co(g)”) generated during the carbothermic reaction remains unoxidized. Consequently, the QRR produces a gas composition enriched with CO(g), which can be readily captured for further utilization.
The recently acquired IP from PyroGenesis encompasses a process that involves capturing the CO(g) stream emitted by the QRR. This captured CO(g) is subsequently converted back into a solid carbon form, creating the potential for its reuse in generating the carbothermic process for silicon production once again.
By harnessing the unique CO(g) sequestration ability of the QRR in combination with the utilization of an organic carbon source, HPQ is poised to achieve the production of Zero CO2 Silicon Metal. This innovative approach enables carbon-neutral silicon metal production and holds the potential for generating carbon credits. According to management estimates, the QRR potential carbon credits should be between 1.5 tCO2/t product basis and 2.6 tCO2/t product basis [4].
HPQ intends to commercialize its Zero+ CO2 Silicon Metal under the brand name SILICIUMX.
Zero Nitrogen Oxides emission, another environmental advantage of the QRR process
The size, complexity, and open-top nature of Open Electric Arc Furnace facilities contribute to the heating of atmospheric nitrogen, causing it to enter a reactive state and releasing highly reactive and poisonous Nitrogen Oxides (NOx) gases. However, the unique design of the QRR inhibits air infiltrations within the reactor, effectively preventing the formation of NOx. This environmental advantage is another positive aspect of the QRR process.