NGK INSULATORS, LTD. has initiated a carbon dioxide (CO2) capture demonstration project at its headquarters, aiming to achieve carbon neutrality through its business activities. The company has installed a CO2 capture system near its ceramic products plant to capture emissions from the firing kiln. Additionally, NGK plans to implement a methanation system in the next fiscal year to further engage in Carbon Capture and Utilization (CCU).

The ceramics industry faces challenges in reducing CO2 emissions, particularly from firing kilns. The exhaust gas from these kilns has a lower CO2 concentration compared to thermal power stations, making capture less efficient and more expensive. Furthermore, the high cost of implementing Carbon Capture, Utilization, and Storage (CCUS) technologies presents a significant barrier to widespread adoption in the industry.

NGK has taken a proactive approach by:

1. Installing a CO2 capture system capable of capturing about 0.1 tons of CO2 per day from the firing kiln exhaust.

2. Planning to implement a methanation system that will react captured CO2 with hydrogen to produce methane, enabling CO2 recycling.

3. Conducting early demonstrations using existing technologies to establish optimal system specifications and operating conditions for their firing kilns.

4. Exploring energy management strategies, such as utilizing unused low-temperature waste heat, to improve CCUS efficiency and reduce costs.

While the full results of the demonstration are yet to be seen, NGK aims to:

1. Develop efficient and cost-effective CCUS solutions tailored for the ceramics industry.

2. Contribute to the realization of a carbon-neutral society through technological innovations.

3. Achieve their target of net zero CO2 emissions by 2050, as outlined in the NGK Group Environmental Vision.

4. Accelerate the development of CCUS-related products, such as monolithic reactors for synfuel production.

By taking these steps, NGK is positioning itself as a leader in sustainable ceramics manufacturing and contributing to broader efforts in combating climate change.