Empa tests sub-second CO2 capture with thin amine coatings

Researchers at Switzerland's Empa are developing a direct air capture approach that completes CO2 adsorption and release cycles in under one second, versus minutes for conventional systems. Instead of bulky porous filters, ultra-thin amine-containing coatings on a moving surface bind CO2 near the surface and heat up quickly. Only flow and process simulations have been done so far; experimental testing is still needed.

• Target cycle time for CO2 capture and release is under one second
• Ultra-thin amine coatings bind CO2 at the surface, cutting thermal mass
• Atmospheric CO2 is about 430 ppm, requiring large air volumes
• Experimental validation is pending and needs a new measurement platform