From Closed-Loop Cycles to a Clean Future: Reducing CO₂ Emissions by 60-90% through Enhanced Legacy Technologies-So We Do Not Become Petrified Relics of Our Own Misjudgments

Abstract

Anthropogenic CO₂ emissions remain a primary driver of climate change. We propose a scalable closed-loop carbon management system that integrates advanced Ni–CeO₂–ZrO₂ catalysts for the Sabatier reaction, structured reactor architectures for optimal heat and mass transfer, and in-vehicle hydrogen electrolysis powered by ICE exhaust energy. Our conceptual design reclaims reaction heat to sustain electrolysis, converting CO₂ into methane for on-site storage or reuse, while H₂ enrichment boosts engine efficiency. Toy-model simulations and mass-balance calculations project CO₂ reductions of 60–90% relative to baseline operations. We detail catalyst performance metrics, reactor design criteria, and hydrogen integration protocols, and provide a techno-economic analysis demonstrating long-term cost benefits over conventional fossil systems. This Original Research article offers practical engineering guidelines and testable performance targets, paving the way for rapid deployment of enhanced legacy technologies in climate mitigation strategies.

Keywords: CO₂ utilization, CO2 utilization, Sabatier reaction, closed-loop cycle, hydrogen electrolysis, Ni–CeO₂–ZrO₂, Ni–CeO2–ZrO2, catalysts, internal combustion engines, heat recovery, emissions mitigation, Decarbonisation