Technology
In 2026, Chinese scientists developed the world's first carbon-free coal fuel cell (ZC-DCFC), marking a major shift toward sustainable thermal power. Unlike traditional combustion, this system uses chemical reactions to generate electricity directly, capturing CO2 for reuse in chemical production. Achieving 40% efficiency, the technology overcomes previous durability issues and offers a clean path for coal usage. This breakthrough, published in "Energy Reviews," is vital for nations seeking carbon neutrality while utilizing deep-seated coal reserves up to 2,000 meters underground.