Researchers at the University of Delaware demonstrated a battery-based electrochemical device that captures CO2 by exploiting pH differences between cathode and anode compartments, using nickel hydroxide electrodes on both sides. The system converts CO2 to carbonate at the alkaline cathode, which then migrates through a separator membrane and releases CO2 gas at the acidic anode. The team claims this approach requires less energy than dominant reversible-filter capture systems, potentially making it more cost-effective for ambient air or industrial smokestack applications.
Background
Current carbon capture technologies predominantly rely on energy-intensive reversible adsorption using sorbent granules or amine solutions, where CO2 must be thermally released for collection. This limits their economic viability, especially for low-concentration ambient air capture.
- Source
- Ars Technica
- Published
- Sep 29, 2026 at 04:31 AM
- Score
- 7.0 / 10