Recycling Carbon Dioxide

September 2023

By: Katrin C

Carbon capture represents a hopeful strategy for combatting climate change. It involves capturing carbon dioxide (CO2) before it escapes into the atmosphere, thereby reducing the emission of greenhouse gases. However, conventional carbon capture techniques are often energy-intensive and demand substantial investments in equipment. Fortunately, a recent breakthrough has introduced an inventive carbon capture system centered on electrochemical cells, offering efficient CO2 capture and release capabilities. In contrast to traditional amine-based carbon capture systems, this groundbreaking technology functions at room temperature and consumes significantly less energy.

Industries are actively exploring electrification as a means to reduce their carbon emissions. While electrification holds promise, it may not be a viable option for every sector. Take cement production, for instance, which inherently generates CO2 emissions, contributing significantly to the overall carbon footprint. To tackle this challenge, carbon capture technologies are employed, typically relying on amines to chemically bond with CO2 and remove it. However, this process is energy-intensive and often involves the use of heat and industrial equipment, indirectly leading to additional fossil fuel consumption. In response to these challenges, researchers Fang-Yu Kuo, Sung Eun Jerng, and Betar Gallant have developed an electrochemical cell capable of efficiently capturing and releasing CO2 with minimal energy input.

Their innovative electrochemical cell operates by transporting positively charged cations across a liquid amine solution dissolved in dimethyl sulfoxide. During the discharge phase, a potent Lewis cation interacts with carbamic acid, releasing CO2 and forming carbamate amine. Subsequently, during the charging phase, the cation is removed, enabling the cell to capture CO2 once again and reform carbamic acid.

To enhance performance, the researchers employed a combination of potassium and zinc ions in their prototype cell, designating them as the cathode and anode, respectively. This configuration demanded less energy compared to heat-based cells and proved competitive with other electrochemical cell designs during initial experiments. Furthermore, the team conducted long-term stability tests, revealing that the device retained nearly 95% of its original capacity after multiple charging and discharging cycles, confirming the practicality of this system.

In summary, this innovative research provides a promising alternative by showcasing the potential of electrochemical cells to render continuous CO2 capture and release technologies more practical for industrial applications. By reducing energy demands and offering a workable solution for carbon capture, these electrochemical cells contribute to global endeavors aimed at mitigating climate change.

References

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https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2023/08/230830131737.htm

https://www.acs.org/pressroom/presspacs/2023/august/new-way-to-capture-and-recycle-carbon-dioxide-from-industrial-emissions.html#:~:text=Now%2C%20researchers%20reporting%20in%20ACS,%2Dbased%20carbon%2Dcapture%20systems.