Carnot engines achieve 68-72% thermal efficiency compared to conventional engines' 25-35% by eliminating cooling systems and heat losses, while supporting multiple fuel types including hydrogen, diesel, and biofuels. This doubling of efficiency reduces fuel consumption and emissions by approximately 50%, with applications targeting hard-to-abate sectors like marine, heavy-duty vehicles, and off-grid power generation.
Russia's floating nuclear power plant, the Akademik Lomonosov, has operated since 2019 and inspired international interest in maritime reactors. The IAEA is launching ATLAS in August 2026 to develop regulatory frameworks for civilian nuclear technologies at sea, while the U.S. and other nations prepare for potential commercial floating nuclear projects amid growing demand for decarbonization.
Laureen Meroueh founded Hertha Metals to revolutionize steelmaking with a new furnace that combines iron ore into refined steel in a single step using natural gas instead of coal, reducing emissions by at least half and cutting costs by 25%. The technology addresses the steel industry's long-standing environmental challenge, which accounts for roughly 7% of global carbon emissions, while remaining economically competitive.