Iberdrola, the Pulsed Laser Centre (CLPU) and the University of Salamanca (USAL) have performed a demonstration of the first prototype of the SIGMA research project, which focuses on developing advanced systems for separating atmospheric gases by ionisation and magnetism for implementation in carbon capture (CO2).
SIGMA is an R&D initiative aimed at designing a device to reduce by almost 100% the emissions from conventional electricity generation plants and industrial facilities.
The equipment uses ultra-short, ultra-intense laser radiation to effectively ionise the pollutant gases generated at these facilities, in order that they may be extracted via electrical and magnetic fields, processed and use as raw materials in other industries, such as fertilizer companies or canned food.
The SIGMA project was first launched in 2011, with a budget of over €2.5 million and an expected four-year duration. It is being carried out under the auspices of the INNPACTO scheme to promote R&D&I and it receives funding from the Ministry of Economy and Competitiveness.
The participants include Iberdrola Ingenieria, in the capacity of project coordinator, the University of Salamanca, via the General Mass Spectrometry Department and the Ultra-short Ultra-intense Pulsed Laser Centre (CLPU).
The Ultra-short, Ultra-intense Pulsed Laser Centre (CLPU) is a research facility founded by a consortium of the Spanish Ministry of Economy and Competitiveness, the Regional Government of Castile and León and the University of Salamanca, three institutions that came together in 2007 to implement the roadmap for unique scientific-technological infrastructure in Salamanca, with co-funding from the European Regional Development Fund (ERDF).