ROOF-FORM™ modular co₂-to-formic acid micro-reactor panels

Technology
In development
Company

Revolutionize flat roofs into CO₂-to-formic acid production units with ROOF-FORM™ panels. These lightweight, self-ballasted panels convert CO₂ into formic acid, providing a sustainable solution for green chemical and fuel-cell markets. Capture carbon and generate revenue efficiently.

Overview

ROOF-FORM™ Modular CO₂-to-Formic Acid Micro-Reactor Panels offer an innovative solution for transforming idle flat roofs into productive CO₂ conversion systems. These panels operate by capturing carbon dioxide from ambient air or HVAC exhaust and converting it into valuable formic acid using a gas-diffusion cathode. At the heart of this technology is a scalable, energy-efficient process that integrates seamlessly with existing rooftop photovoltaic systems, converting excess electricity into storable chemical value. By implementing this system, buildings can not only reduce their carbon footprint but also generate revenue through the sale of formic acid and carbon credits.

Technical specifications
  • Design: Self-ballasted 1 m² polymer-composite panels weighing ≤ 8 kg m⁻², adhering to EPDM, TPO, or PVC roofing with specialized tape.
  • Operation: Utilizes a gas-diffusion cathode at 200 mA cm⁻² and 2.5 V to reduce CO₂ to formate, which is then proton-shifted to 85 wt % formic acid.
  • Output: A hectare of panels can capture approximately 150 t of CO₂ per year and produce 110 t of formic acid.
  • Efficiency: Achieved 40% electrical efficiency with stable Faradaic yield during a 500-hour outdoor pilot.
  • Safety and Performance: Integral heat exchangers maintain roof surface temperature below 45°C, and waste oxygen is safely vented.
Technology readiness level

Currently at TRL 6, the ROOF-FORM™ panels have been validated through a 500-hour outdoor pilot, demonstrating stable performance and intact membranes. The technology is progressing towards TRL 7, with plans to install a 100 m² pilot array on commercial roofs and a 1,000 m² field demonstration. These forthcoming steps are designed to further validate the system's performance and reliability, paving the way for broader commercial deployment.


About Re-Du Company

RE-DU is a recycling technology company that has developed a patented process for the chemical deconstruction of mixed plastic waste. By breaking down diverse plastic types—such as PET, PC, PU, and PA—into monomers, the company enables the transformation of previously difficult-to-recycle materials into commercially valuable chemical products. This technology eliminates the need for costly sorting of mixed waste streams and offers an efficient, cost-effective alternative to traditional plastic management systems, which often rely on outdated processes that fail to address the majority of global plastic waste.

By providing a scalable solution for chemical recycling, RE-DU aims to reduce reliance on fossil fuels and minimize the environmental impact of plastic pollution in landfills. The company serves as a partner for industries seeking sustainable chemical feedstocks and is contributing to the development of a circular economy. Supported by initiatives like the Innovation Crossroads Award and research collaboration with Oak Ridge National Laboratory, RE-DU is positioned to help transition toward a net-zero carbon society by proving that mixed plastic waste can be successfully converted into high-quality, reusable resources.

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