Nist Breakthrough Simple Material Could Scrub Carbon Dioxide From Power Plant Smokestacks

The National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST) has developed a breakthrough material that could potentially remove carbon dioxide (CO2) from power plant smokestacks more efficiently than current methods.

The material, called a metal-organic framework (MOF), is made up of metal ions and organic molecules that form a porous structure with a high surface area. This allows the MOF to selectively capture CO2 molecules from the flue gas emissions that are generated by burning fossil fuels.

What makes this particular MOF unique is that it is able to operate at higher temperatures and pressures than other MOFs currently being used for carbon capture. This means it can be used directly in power plants without needing additional energy-intensive processes, making it a more cost-effective solution.

In addition, the NIST team was able to tailor the MOF's pore size and chemistry to specifically target CO2, increasing its selectivity and efficiency. They also discovered that the material could be easily regenerated by simply reducing the pressure, allowing for continuous use.

This breakthrough could have significant implications for reducing greenhouse gas emissions from power plants, which are a major contributor to global climate change. By capturing CO2 before it is released into the atmosphere, this technology could help mitigate some of the negative effects of burning fossil fuels.