Membrane Carbon Dioxide Capture

Membrane-based carbon dioxide (CO2) capture uses permeable or semi-permeable materials that allow for the selective separation of CO2 from flue gas.  In general, membrane processes offer the following advantages: (1) simple passive operation with no moving parts; (2) immunity to chemical contaminants since no reactions occur; (3) energy-efficiency with low operating costs; and (4) a small footprint that is easily expandable due to modular nature.  Research projects in this pathway address key technical challenges to the use of membrane-based systems, such as large flue gas volume, relatively low CO2 concentration, low flue gas pressure, flue gas contaminants, and the need for high membrane surface area.  Brief descriptions of projects being conducted can be found below, followed by links to additional sources of information.

Membrane Carbon Dioxide Capture Projects


Materials and Catalyst Research
The purpose of this project is to examine the potential for metal organic frameworks (MOFs) to act as highly selective membranes for separation of CO2.  The project includes experimental work on synthesis and testing of MOFs and various levels of modeling, from detailed quantum mechanics to continuum-level approaches.

CO2 Capture from Flue Gas with Membrane Module
The focus of this project is to develop, design, construct, and test a poly(amidoamine) (PAMAM) dendrimer composite membrane module for use in separating CO2 in flue gas streams.  PAMAM is deposited on porous polysulfone substrates with a thin layer of amphiphilic chitosan, used as a gutter layer between the substrate and PAMAM.

Related Papers and Publications: