Q&A paper on Solid Carbon

Read the full Q&A here.

Solid carbon exists in nature (e.g. as graphite or diamond) and can also be produced through industrial processes such as methane or propane pyrolysis. In this process, thermal energy breaks the bond in the methane molecule, producing hydrogen and solid carbon as co-products. As the reaction takes place without oxygen and without combustion, no direct CO₂ emissions are released and the carbon remains in solid form.

When used, solid carbon can become a valuable resource supporting the circular economy and contributing to emission reductions by avoiding CO₂ emissions during hydrogen production and replacing virgin carbon materials. When derived from renewable feedstocks, it can also enable negative emissions when permanently stored or used in long-lasting products.

Solid carbon has a broad range of applications across key sectors, including construction (e.g. concrete and asphalt), agriculture (soil improvement), and advanced energy storage technologies such as batteries and supercapacitors. It can also help reduce Europe’s dependence on imported carbon-based materials such as graphite and carbon black, strengthening supply chain security and strategic autonomy.

This Q&A, prepared by Eurogas, outlines the origin, benefits, applications, and policy framework for solid carbon, highlighting gaps in current EU regulation and recommending better recognition of its role in the EU.

Download the full document below.