Model Answer
0 min readIntroduction
Nisarga-Runa, developed by the Bhabha Atomic Research Centre (BARC), is an innovative technology for carbon sequestration utilizing basalt rock. Basalt, a volcanic rock, naturally absorbs CO2 through a process called mineral carbonation. This technology accelerates this natural process, offering a potential solution for mitigating climate change by permanently storing atmospheric carbon dioxide.
Nisarga-Runa: A Detailed Overview
Nisarga-Runa leverages the inherent CO2 absorption capacity of basalt rock. The process involves:
- Crushing Basalt: Basalt rock is crushed into fine particles to increase its surface area.
- CO2 Exposure: The crushed basalt is exposed to CO2-rich flue gases from industrial sources (e.g., power plants).
- Mineral Carbonation: CO2 reacts with the calcium, magnesium, and iron oxides in basalt, forming stable carbonates (e.g., calcium carbonate, magnesium carbonate).
- Permanent Storage: These carbonates are environmentally benign and permanently store the CO2, preventing its release into the atmosphere.
Advantages of Nisarga-Runa
- Permanent Sequestration: Unlike other methods, CO2 is mineralized, ensuring long-term storage.
- Abundant Resource: Basalt is a widely available volcanic rock.
- Environmentally Friendly: The process produces stable, non-toxic carbonates.
- Scalability: The technology can be scaled up to accommodate large CO2 emissions.
Current Status & Implementation
BARC has successfully demonstrated the technology at a pilot scale. The initial pilot plant was established near a thermal power plant. Research is ongoing to optimize the process and reduce costs. Further development focuses on utilizing industrial waste streams containing CO2, promoting a circular economy approach.
Comparison with other Carbon Capture Technologies
| Technology | Storage Method | Permanence | Cost |
|---|---|---|---|
| Nisarga-Runa | Mineral Carbonation (Basalt) | Permanent | Moderate (potential for reduction) |
| Post-Combustion Capture | Deep Geological Storage | Long-term (potential leakage) | High |
| Direct Air Capture | Deep Geological Storage | Long-term (potential leakage) | Very High |
Conclusion
Nisarga-Runa presents a promising, environmentally sound, and potentially scalable solution for carbon sequestration. While still in the developmental phase, its ability to permanently store CO2 in stable mineral forms makes it a valuable addition to the toolkit for combating climate change. Continued research and investment are crucial to realizing its full potential.
Answer Length
This is a comprehensive model answer for learning purposes and may exceed the word limit. In the exam, always adhere to the prescribed word count.