Twelve Benefit Corporation's Core Technology

Revolutionizing Carbon Transformation Through Electrochemical Processes

Key Takeaways

Industrial Photosynthesis: Twelve replicates natural photosynthesis by converting CO₂ into valuable products using renewable energy.
Advanced Electrochemical Systems: Utilizing Polymer-Electrolyte Membrane (PEM) electrolyzers and proprietary catalysts for efficient CO₂ conversion.
Scalable and Modular Technology: Designed for industrial-scale deployment, enabling large-scale sustainable fuel and material production.

Introduction

Twelve Benefit Corporation stands at the forefront of climate technology, dedicated to transforming carbon dioxide (CO₂) into sustainable and valuable products. By leveraging cutting-edge electrochemical processes, Twelve not only addresses the pressing issue of CO₂ emissions but also contributes to the creation of a circular carbon economy. This innovative approach positions Twelve as a pivotal player in the global effort to mitigate climate change and transition towards fossil-free alternatives.

Core Technologies

Electrochemical CO₂ Conversion

The cornerstone of Twelve's technology is its electrochemical CO₂ conversion system, which mimics the natural process of photosynthesis. This system utilizes a Polymer-Electrolyte Membrane (PEM) electrolyzer to efficiently convert captured CO₂ into hydrocarbons. By integrating renewable energy sources, water, and CO₂, the electrolyzer facilitates the transformation of these inputs into valuable products such as fuels, chemicals, and materials. This process not only reduces greenhouse gas concentrations but also provides sustainable alternatives to traditionally fossil fuel-derived products.

Polymer-Electrolyte Membrane (PEM) Electrolyzer

The PEM electrolyzer is a pivotal component in Twelve's system, designed to enhance the efficiency and scalability of CO₂ conversion. This electrolyzer employs a specialized membrane that facilitates the selective transport of ions, thereby optimizing the electrochemical reactions necessary for converting CO₂ into desired chemicals. The integration of proprietary catalysts within the PEM electrolyzer significantly improves reaction rates and product selectivity, ensuring that the conversion process remains both effective and economically viable.

Catalyst Innovation

At the heart of Twelve's technology lies its advanced catalyst systems. These proprietary CO₂-reducing catalysts are engineered to maximize the efficiency of the electrochemical reactions, enabling the selective production of specific hydrocarbons. The catalyst innovation not only enhances the speed of conversion but also allows for the tailoring of output products based on market demands. This flexibility is crucial for producing a wide range of sustainable materials, including synthetic fuels and polymers.

Opus™ System

The Opus™ System represents Twelve's commitment to scaling its technology for industrial applications. This system is an integrated, modular platform that combines the PEM electrolyzer, catalyst systems, and renewable energy inputs into a cohesive unit capable of large-scale production. The Opus™ System is designed for seamless integration with existing industrial infrastructure, allowing for the retrofitting of current facilities and the establishment of new production lines. This scalability ensures that Twelve can meet the growing demand for sustainable products while maintaining operational efficiency.

Products and Applications

Sustainable Aviation Fuel (E-Jet® SAF)

One of Twelve's flagship products is E-Jet® Sustainable Aviation Fuel (SAF), a revolutionary alternative to conventional jet fuel. E-Jet® SAF is produced through the electrochemical conversion of captured CO₂, resulting in a fuel that boasts up to 90% lower lifecycle emissions compared to traditional jet fuel. This significant reduction in emissions makes E-Jet® SAF a vital component in the aviation industry's efforts to achieve sustainability goals. Moreover, E-Jet® SAF is fully compatible with existing aviation infrastructure, ensuring a smooth transition for airlines and reducing the need for extensive modifications.

Plastics and Chemicals

Twelve's technology extends beyond fuel production, enabling the creation of a variety of plastics and chemicals traditionally derived from fossil fuels. By converting CO₂ into building blocks such as polyethylene and polypropylene, Twelve provides sustainable alternatives for manufacturing processes. These CO₂-based materials not only reduce reliance on non-renewable resources but also contribute to lower overall carbon emissions in the production cycle. Additionally, the versatility of Twelve's system allows for the customization of products to meet specific industrial requirements, further broadening the scope of applications.

E-Fuels and Synthetic Gas

The production of e-fuels and synthetic gas (syngas) is another significant application of Twelve's core technology. E-fuels, synthesized from CO₂ and renewable energy, offer a sustainable replacement for conventional fuels in various sectors, including transportation and energy. Syngas, a mixture of carbon monoxide and hydrogen, serves as a versatile intermediate for producing a wide array of chemicals and materials. By providing these advanced products, Twelve not only supports the reduction of carbon emissions but also fosters innovation in energy and material science.

Impact and Sustainability

Twelve Benefit Corporation's core technology plays a crucial role in advancing sustainability and combating climate change. By transforming CO₂ into valuable products, Twelve contributes to the reduction of greenhouse gas concentrations in the atmosphere. This process aligns with global efforts to achieve carbon neutrality and supports the transition towards a low-carbon economy. Moreover, the use of renewable energy in the conversion process ensures that the entire system operates sustainably, minimizing the environmental footprint of production activities.

Circular Carbon Economy

Twelve's approach embodies the principles of a circular carbon economy, where carbon emissions are not merely reduced but systematically recycled and repurposed. By capturing and converting CO₂ emissions from industrial sources, Twelve closes the carbon loop, turning waste into resource. This model not only mitigates the impact of carbon emissions but also creates economic value from what was previously considered waste, driving both environmental and economic benefits.

Emission Reductions

The implementation of Twelve's technology leads to substantial reductions in carbon emissions across various industries. For instance, E-Jet® SAF offers a significant decrease in lifecycle emissions, contributing to the aviation sector's sustainability targets. Similarly, the production of CO₂-based plastics and chemicals reduces the carbon footprint associated with material manufacturing. These emission reductions are critical in meeting international climate goals and fostering a more sustainable industrial landscape.

Scaling and Deployment

Modular and Scalable Design

Twelve's technology is designed with scalability and modularity at its core. The Opus™ System can be easily scaled to meet the demands of various industrial applications, from small-scale operations to large-scale production facilities. This flexibility ensures that Twelve can adapt to different production needs and integrate seamlessly with existing infrastructure. The modular design also facilitates easier maintenance and upgrades, ensuring long-term operational efficiency and adaptability to evolving technological advancements.

Industrial-Scale Deployment

Twelve is actively scaling its technology through strategic projects such as AirPlant One, a dedicated facility for producing sustainable aviation fuel and other electrochemical products at an industrial scale. This facility serves as a model for future deployments, demonstrating the practicality and effectiveness of Twelve's technology in real-world settings. By scaling up production capabilities, Twelve aims to meet the increasing demand for sustainable products while maintaining high standards of efficiency and environmental responsibility.

Integration with Existing Systems

The ability to integrate with existing industrial systems is a key advantage of Twelve's technology. Whether retrofitting current facilities or establishing new production lines, Twelve ensures that its electrochemical conversion systems can be seamlessly incorporated into various industrial contexts. This compatibility reduces the barriers to adoption, allowing industries to transition to sustainable practices without significant disruptions or extensive infrastructure overhauls.

Conclusion

Twelve Benefit Corporation's core technology represents a transformative approach to carbon management and sustainability. By leveraging advanced electrochemical processes to convert CO₂ into valuable products, Twelve not only addresses the critical issue of carbon emissions but also fosters the development of a circular carbon economy. The integration of scalable, modular systems and proprietary catalysts ensures that Twelve's solutions are both effective and adaptable, positioning the company as a leader in the climate technology sector. As Twelve continues to scale its operations and expand its technological capabilities, it plays a pivotal role in the global transition towards a sustainable and low-carbon future.