The ColdSpark project was in the spotlight at the 10th Asia-Pacific Congress on Catalysis (APCAT10), where Prof. Xin Tu from the University of Liverpool delivered a keynote presentation titled “Plasma Catalysis for C1 Chemistry”. Held in Singapore, APCAT10 is one of the most prominent international platforms for sharing innovations in catalysis science and engineering.
In his presentation, Prof. Tu showcased the latest advances in non-thermal plasma (NTP) technology and its integration with heterogeneous catalysis to convert C1 molecules like methane (CH₄) and carbon dioxide (CO₂) into valuable fuels and chemicals. This approach directly addresses the need for sustainable, decentralised, and low-emission alternatives in energy and materials production.
At the core of Prof. Tu’s talk was the ColdSpark project, which focuses on developing a novel plasma-based process for methane cracking. The process enables the low-temperature, low-pressure conversion of methane into hydrogen and solid carbon, without emitting CO₂—positioning ColdSpark as a clean alternative to conventional hydrogen production pathways.
Key benefits of the NTP + catalysis approach include:
- Catalyst activation at low temperatures
- Enhanced conversion efficiency, selectivity, and yield
- Instant on/off operation, well-suited for intermittent renewables
- Decentralised fuel production and energy storage capabilities
These features make plasma catalysis an attractive electrification pathway that complements the growing use of renewable energy and supports the circular carbon economy.
Prof. Tu emphasised that unlocking the potential of CH₄ and CO₂ as valuable resources rather than considering only the harmful emissions can significantly advance global climate objectives. Plasma catalysis, with its high adaptability and reduced capital intensity, provides a transformative route to net-zero, especially for regions investing in distributed and sustainable fuel solutions.
During the conference, Prof. Tu also had a chance to meet David Farrusseng from IRCELYON, a key partner in TITAN, ColdSpark’s sister Horizon Europe project. Their exchange further reinforced the strategic alignment and synergies between ColdSpark and TITAN in advancing methane valorisation technologies across Europe and beyond.
Prof. Tu’s abstract is available in the APCAT10 e-Abstract book.