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CO2 mitigation via accelerated limestone weathering

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Abstract

We evaluate accelerated weathering of limestone (AWL: CO2 + CaCO3 + H2O=> Ca2+ + 2HCO3-) as a low-tech, inexpensive, high-capacity, environmentally-friendly CO2 capture and sequestration technology. With access to seawater and limestone being essential to this approach, significant limestone resources are close to most CO2-emitting power plants along the coastal US. Waste fines, representing more than 20% of current US crushed limestone production (>109 tonnes/yr), could be used as an inexpensive source of AWL carbonate. Under such circumstances CO2 mitigation cost could be as low as $3-$4/tonne. More broadly, 10-20% of US point-source CO2 emissions could be treated at $20-$30/tonne CO2. AWL end-solution disposal in the ocean would significantly reduce effects on ocean pH and carbonate chemistry relative to those caused by direct atmospheric or ocean CO2 disposal. Indeed, the increase in ocean Ca2+ and bicarbonate offered by AWL should enhance growth of corals and other calcifying marine organisms.

Publication type Conference Paper
Publication Subtype Conference Paper
Title CO2 mitigation via accelerated limestone weathering
Volume 227
Issue 1
Year Published 2004
Language English
Larger Work Title ACS National Meeting Book of Abstracts
Conference Title 227th ACS National Meeting Abstracts of Papers
Conference Location Anaheim, CA.
Conference Date 28 March 2004 through 1 April 2004
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