#70: The Syzygy of Converting Light into Carbon-Free Chemicals | Earthlings 2.0 Podcast

‌

Episode description

‌

Episode description

Hello Earthlings! In this week’s episode, we dive into a fascinating intersection of science, technology, and the future of carbon-free chemicals and fuels - all through the power of light.

Our host, Lisa Ann Pinkerton, is joined by Trevor Best, CEO and co-founder of Syzygy Plasmonics. Trevor explains how Syzygy is revolutionizing the chemical manufacturing industry by eliminating combustion—a process that contributes over two gigatons of CO2 annually. By using a groundbreaking technology based on plasmonic photocatalysis, Syzygy has developed a light-driven chemical reactor that can decarbonize hard-to-abate sectors.

The word "syzygy" might sound like an obscure term, but it represents the alignment of three critical forces shaping our future: energy, technology, and sustainability. Just like the perfect alignment during an eclipse, these three elements converge to create Syzygy, a company at the forefront of industrial decarbonization.

Tune in to learn how Syzygy's innovative approach is not only reducing emissions but also turning greenhouse gasses into valuable fuels.

Our faith in Humanity is restored this week by Laxman Singh, who when he was 18, he returned to his home village of Lapodia, India and discovered his friends and family were suffering acute water scarcity. Laxman set out to expand the pond himself with a few friends. By the end of the week, 20 villagers had joined the cause. Two months later, the monsoons came and rainwater filled the pond for the first time in decades.

Key Topics:

Efficient Plasma Technology: Syzygy is developing a Rigel™ photoreactor and proprietary photocatalyst technology designed to convert chemical reactions into more energy-efficient processes, particularly for hydrogen production and other chemical processes.

Environmental Impact: The technology has the potential to significantly reduce carbon emissions by replacing conventional, energy-intensive industrial processes with more sustainable methods.

Scalability and Versatility: Syzygy's plasma technology is scalable and can be applied across various industries, making it versatile for different applications beyond hydrogen production, including ammonia synthesis and CO2 conversion.

Market Disruption Potential: By lowering energy consumption and operational costs, Syzygy's technology could disrupt traditional chemical manufacturing, leading to more sustainable industrial practices and influencing market dynamics.