In the global push toward defossilisation, Power-to-X (PtX) technologies are increasingly seen as a crucial bridge. These are systems that convert renewable electricity into other usable forms—fuels, chemicals, heat, or materials—that help reduce greenhouse gas emissions in sectors where direct use of electricity is less feasible.

A recent development from researchers at the University of Copenhagen adds an intriguing twist: combining plastic waste and CO₂ capture in a Power-to-X context. According to Focus Online, scientists there have created a porous material called BAETA, made from recycled PET (a commonly used plastic in bottles and packaging), which can bind CO₂ from air and industrial emissions.

What is BAETA and How It Fits into Power-to-X

  • From plastic to filter: BAETA is produced via a chemical process (aminolysis) combining PET plastic with ethylenediamine. This transforms the used plastic into building blocks that form a porous structure with a high capacity for CO₂ absorption.
  • Dual benefit: The process tackles two major environmental challenges—plastic waste and rising CO₂ levels—by turning what would be waste into a functional material for climate mitigation.
  • Durability and potential scale: Lab tests show that BAETA maintains its CO₂-capture ability in many cycles (40 to 150) and under varying temperatures (room temperature up to ~150 °C). This suggests it could hold up beyond small-scale trials.

Power-to-X in the Swiss Context

Switzerland has ambitious net-zero goals by 2050, aligned with European climate policies. Because of its geography and limited domestic fossil resources, Switzerland depends on innovative solutions like synthetic fuels, hydrogen, and carbon capture.

  • Limited space for renewables: Unlike countries with vast wind or solar potential, Switzerland must make the most of efficient Power-to-X technologies to store energy and reduce dependency on imports.
  • Waste as a resource: With its strong waste-management infrastructure, Switzerland could use PET recycling and chemical innovation like BAETA to link circular economy practices directly with CO₂ reduction goals.
  • Synergies with industry: Swiss chemical, energy, and aviation companies already explore synthetic fuels and carbon capture. BAETA-like approaches could complement these projects by supplying low-cost CO₂ filters or creating new recycling pathways.

Source:

Focus Online (2025-09-12): “Eine wertvolle Ressource – Diese Forscher wollen Ihren Plastikmüll…”, reporting on the University of Copenhagen’s development of BAETA.