A team of scientists at Northwestern University has demonstrated that atmospheric carbon capture is possible using abundant, accessible, and low-impact materials. This research paves the way for a more practical and economical version of direct air capture ( DAC ).
Carbon capture through humidity fluctuations
The humidity oscillation approach relies on relative humidity levels to absorb and release CO₂, allowing the process to occur without the need for additional thermal energy . This method, according to the authors, is especially useful in regions where humidity naturally fluctuates between day and night, and could be applied in sectors such as aviation or agriculture, where emissions are more difficult to manage.
This scientific study identified alternatives for implementation, such as activated carbon , nanostructured graphite , iron and aluminum oxides , and flake graphite . These compounds are more economical and also demonstrated high capture capacity and rapid reaction kinetics.
Among other advantages is the diversion of common organic or mineral waste , which reduces its environmental impact and allows for large-scale production without compromising sustainability. Furthermore, the pore size and the presence of functional groups on its surface were determining factors in capture efficiency.
The research was supported by the U.S. Department of Energy and Northwestern’s SHyNE Center for Science, underscoring its relevance within the climate innovation ecosystem.
By enabling CO₂ removal technology that’s accessible from any location and adaptable to different environmental conditions, this development promises to become a key tool for achieving international climate goals.
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Source and photo: Northwestern University
