> But it's theoretically possible to burn hydrocarbons and turn the CO2 into coal and leave > it like that with a net energy gain > This would be a game-change

> But it's theoretically possible to burn hydrocarbons and turn the CO2 into coal and leave > it like that with a net energy gain > This would be a game-changer! Though "theoretically" is pulling a bit of weight here... In nat. gas this is possible - its called pyrolisis - as an alternative to steam reformation it is generating pure carbon and hydrogen instead of the CO2 and Hydrogen that steam reformation does. Its main downside is that it takes more energy so you get less usable energy out of the process. You can do it with other organic fuels as well and the simplest process is making charcoal from wood but its not as clear a way to separate out carbon there.