A revolutionary air filter designed by a group of researchers from leading U.S. universities enables common buildings to capture CO2 emissions from their heating, ventilation and air conditioning (HVAC) systems.
According to the team, this innovation achieves a net efficiency of 92%, without requiring an additional energy supply.
This advancement could significantly boost climate action efforts, turning buildings into powerful decarbonization assets.
The novel filter is made out of carbon nanobibers (CNF) coated with a polyethylenimine (PEI) polymer that facilitates a passive CO2 adsorption without changing the airflow.
Presenting a hopeful solution to the issue of CO2 release in capture technologies, the MIT-designed filter comes with the ability to regenerate with renewable sources, boasting a structure capable of both solar thermal regeneration and Electrothermal regeneration (Joule heating).
The team behind the filter also calculated the estimated cost per ton of captured CO2 in different scenarios, where the system is powered by different energy sources.
In that regard, calculations showed that if powered by solar energy, the ppt would be $362, and if powered by electricity, it would total $821. If tax incentives like the U.S. Inflation Reduction Act are taken into account, the price would range between $199 and $638.
In the long run, the developers estimate that these filters can capture up to 25 million tons of CO2 annually in the U.S. and up to 596 million tons globally, a volume that matches the yearly emissions of countries like Australia or South Korea.
Relevant: ‘CarbonQuest Is On A Mission To Decarbonize Buildings’ – COO Brian Asparro
As for the potential application of this innovation, the MIT team highlights that it can help decarbonize buildings and transform homes and offices into significant carbon-tackling units.
It can also reduce the dependence on large industrial infrastructures, while providing a citizen-level integration that won’t impact lifestyle quality, but will complement energy efficiency and electrification policies.
Going forward, the team will work on scaling this innovation on a larger level, deciphering issues around the manufacture, distribution, and maintenance processes for this technology.
Read more: Soletair Power And Carbonaide Successfully Produce Concrete With Captured CO2
