Researchers at the University of Delaware developed a way to capture 99% of carbon dioxide from the air.
This new technology involves an electrochemical system powered by hydrogen.
“It turns out our approach is very effective. We can capture 99% of the carbon dioxide out of the air in one pass if we have the right design and right configuration,” said Professor Yushan Yan who led the research.
Here’s why this new carbon capture technology is so important.
Researchers at UD focused on Fuel Cell Energy for many years.
Simply put, this is where fuel cells convert fuel chemical energy into electricity. They can use that electricity to power hybrid or zero-emissions vehicles.
But researchers faced a bit of a problem.
When exposed to CO2, fuel cells lose efficiency.
So, Yan’s research team has been searching for a solution for more than 15 years.
And that search is what led them to this discovery.
First, researchers found a way to implant the power source for this electrochemical technology inside a separation membrane. Then, they developed a filtration membrane that could separate gases – like carbon dioxide.
Best of all, the tech is practical and affordable. So, for a vehicle, the device would only be about the size of a gallon milk container.
Long-term, researchers believe they could use this technology within planes and buildings.
“We have some ideas for a long-term roadmap that can help us get there,” said Brian Setzler, assistant professor for research in chemical and biomolecular engineering and the paper’s co-author.
The race to reduce CO2 emissions.
The world sees the effects of climate change.
Companies are working to develop new technology to reduce their carbon footprint to accomplish this. They are investing in carbon credits and carbon offsets too.
So, as carbon capture becomes more accessible, it can also be a part of the climate solution.