Direct air capture (DAC) technology is gaining prominence as a powerful tool for mitigating climate change. By using industrial-scale machines, DAC directly removes carbon dioxide (CO2) from the atmosphere. Here’s how it works:
- The Process:
- DAC systems utilize chemical sorbents (such as amines or metal-organic frameworks) that selectively bind to CO2 molecules as air passes through.
- Once the sorbent is saturated, it is heated to release the concentrated CO2, which can then be stored underground or used in industrial processes.
- Advantages:
- DAC can remove CO2 from the atmosphere regardless of its source, making it versatile.
- It offers a potential solution for achieving net-zero emissions, especially in challenging sectors like aviation and agriculture.
- Challenges:
- Energy Intensive: DAC requires significant heat and electricity to operate the machines and regenerate sorbents.
- Cost: Currently, DAC costs range from $100 to $1,000 per tonne of captured CO2.
- Future Outlook:
- Ongoing research and development aim to improve DAC efficiency and cost-effectiveness.
- As technology advances, DAC could become a viable large-scale carbon removal solution.
Remember, addressing climate change requires innovative approaches like DAC. Let’s keep exploring ways to protect our planet! 🌍🌱
(1) These machines scrub greenhouse gases from the air – an inventor of …. https://theconversation.com/these-machines-scrub-greenhouse-gases-from-the-air-an-inventor-of-direct-air-capture-technology-shows-how-it-works-172306.
(2) To curb climate change, we have to suck carbon from the sky. But how?. https://www.nationalgeographic.com/environment/article/carbon-capture-trees-atmosphere-climate-change.
(3) Atmospheric carbon dioxide capture by adsorption on amine … – Springer. https://link.springer.com/article/10.1007/s10311-024-01737-z.
(4) Climate change: New idea for sucking up CO2 from air shows promise – BBC. https://www.bbc.com/news/science-environment-64886116.
(5) Direct Air Capture – Energy System – IEA. https://www.iea.org/energy-system/carbon-capture-utilisation-and-storage/direct-air-capture.
Author: John Rowan
I am a Senior Android Engineer and I love everything to do with computers. My specialty is Android programming but I actually love to code in any language specifically learning new things.Share this:
