Carbon Dioxide Conversion Plants
VTT and LUT University Launched a CO₂ Conversion Pilot in Finland
Colin Smith — December 4, 2024
The CO₂ conversion pilot plant in Espoo, Finland, is a collaborative project between VTT Technical Research Centre of Finland and LUT University. This innovative facility, housed in sea containers at the Bioruukki pilot centre, aims to convert captured carbon dioxide (CO₂) emissions into sustainable plastic materials. By leveraging biobased CO₂ from industrial sectors such as the forest industry and waste incineration, the plant seeks to replace fossil-based raw materials with more environmentally friendly alternatives.
The pilot plant is part of the Forest CUMP research project, which explores the potential of converting biobased CO₂ into valuable products like polypropylene (PP) and polyethylene (PE). These plastics, traditionally sourced from fossil fuels, can now be produced through a more sustainable process. The initiative aligns with Finland's broader strategy to expand the use of technological carbon sinks and reduce greenhouse gas emissions.
VTT research professor Juha Lehtonen highlights the significant export potential of this technology, noting that Finland produces around 30 million tonnes of biobased CO₂ annually. If effectively captured and converted into products, Finland could become a major producer and exporter of polymers and transport fuels made from CO₂ and hydrogen. This project represents a major step towards sustainable industrial practices and contributes to Finland's national carbon neutrality objectives.
