Scientists have developed a low-cost, energy-efficient method for capturing carbon dioxide (CO2) directly from the air.

The team at the University of Cambridge used a process akin to charging a battery to charge activated charcoal, a material commonly used in household water filters for removing contaminants.

Carbon capture and storage (CCS) is a technique employed to reduce CO2 emissions that contribute to global warming.

Dr. Alexander Forse, who led the study, described capturing CO2 from the atmosphere as a “last resort.” He added: “Given the scale of the climate emergency, it’s something we need to investigate.”

The study found that the charged charcoal sponge required lower temperatures for CO2 removal and storage, making it potentially more energy-efficient than existing methods.

Dr Forse, of the Yusuf Hamied Department of Chemistry, said: “The first and most urgent thing we’ve got to do is reduce carbon emissions worldwide.

“But greenhouse gas removal is also thought to be necessary to achieve net zero emissions and limit the worst effects of climate change.

“Realistically, we’ve got to do everything we can.”

Dr. Forse explained that this innovative idea emerged during the Covid-19 lockdowns.

“This approach opens a door to making all kinds of materials for different applications, in a way that’s simple and energy-efficient,” he added.

Currently, materials used for CO2 capture from the air need to be heated to temperatures up to 900°C (1,652°F). In contrast, the charged charcoal sponges only needed heating to 90 to 100°C, achievable with renewable electricity. The materials were heated from the inside out, making the process faster and less energy-intensive.

However, the researchers noted some limitations and are working to increase the amount of CO2 that can be captured. The research, published in the journal Nature, was supported by the Leverhulme Trust, the Royal Society, the Engineering and Physical Sciences Research Council (EPSRC), and the Cambridge Centre for Climate Repair.

 

 

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