Stephan Gutzwiller and Fridolin Königsberger have invented a sustainable heating system. While burning wood or pellets, it binds CO2 and simultaneously produces valuable biochar. Patent protection safeguards the innovation and makes the start-up attractive to investors.
Their heating system captures CO2 and produces valuable biochar: Fridolin Königsberger and Stephan Gutzwiller. Photo: IPI
In their workshop in Arlesheim, the inventor duo explain how the project came about. In the middle of room stands the first pyrolytic heating system for a residential building – previously, the company had only supplied its devices to farms. It was one of the first companies to make this technology usable in buildings as well as in agriculture. “Our solution is also well below the statutory exhaust emissions limits,” Stephan Gutzwiller emphasises.
The invention has a climate-friendly effect as it sustainably binds CO2 during the heating process. “Global warming is real,” says Stephan. He adds that, as well as reducing CO2, we also need to adapt soil – the very basis of life – to the new conditions. That’s why the idea of the heating system was so appealing to the duo. In 2021, they founded Pyronet GmbH to further develop and sell the climate-positive technology. The founders believe that their technology has both great economic and ecological potential.
Versatile biochar
The heating system is based on a process of wood gasification. While heat is generated during the pyrolysis stage, the carbon-containing elements of the wood are left behind as biochar. This functions as a safe and long-term CO2 sink, as the biochar remains permanently stable as solid matter for centuries. It also benefits agriculture: the porous structure of the biochar helps to store water and nutrients and improves soil quality – while reducing the use of fertilisers. Biochar can also be used as a feed supplement for ruminant animals to reduce their methane emissions. Moreover, it has the potential to be used as a filter material in waste water treatment plants or as an aggregate in the construction industry.
Coincidence leads to collaboration
The story of Pyronet began when Stephan Gutzwiller discovered the benefits of using biochar in vineyards while working on a project. “I immediately recognised that this technology had potential in combating climate change and improving soil quality,” the scientist recalls. But he realised that he couldn’t do it on his own. Coincidentally, Fridolin Königsberger found out about the idea through friends of friends. He had previous experience with biogas plants and was familiar with control systems and sensors. After a discussion, the two sealed the deal on their collaboration. “We had a solid basis. The foundations had been researched, and we knew how to use the technology effectively – for the climate and the soil,” Fridolin underlines.
The inventors have patented their system. The image shows a short description and a technical drawing from the Swiss patent specification. Photo: Screenshot of Espacenet
Patent protection is a strategic tool too
A key element of the company’s strategy is protecting its intellectual property using patents. “We thought about it from the start. Fridolin already had experience with patent applications,” says Stephan. Thanks to the 20-year patent protection, they can prevent their heating innovation from being copied.
As well as protection for their invention, the founders also see patents as a strategic tool: “The patent is seen as a sign of quality by potential investors and customers alike,” says Stephan. They plan on patenting other technological developments.
The system can use pellets as fuel, for example. Photo: IPI
A search can help inventors to keep out of others’ way
Another aspect they mention is the security of being able to operate in the market without infringing other patent rights. “Before filing our patent application, we conducted a search. It’s very helpful because you see what patents already exist in your market,” says Fridolin. The founders drafted their patent applications and then had them checked and finalised by a patent attorney.
Despite all the initial challenges, what drives Stephan and Fridolin is their belief in the technology and the positive response from their first customers. “It motivates us to develop a product that’s not just good, but in demand too,” says Stephan.
Transforming CO2 into biochar. Diagram: Pyronet GmbH
Obtaining funding after the invention stage
In its first year as a start-up, Pyronet GmbH obtained funding from foundations and private individuals. Funding is an ongoing issue for young companies, according to the co-founder Stephan Gutzwiller. They’ve learned about the subject from books, podcasts and the YouTube Academy. “From the idea to the final product, we always received help at the right time,” says Stephan. However, he adds that once the technology has been developed and is ready for the market, it’s more difficult to get financial aid. “There certainly seems to be a gap in funding between the innovation and market stages,” notes Stephan.
