To achieve net zero CO2 emissions, the CO2 that is generated through industrial processes must be captured before it is released into the atmosphere. By utilizing the unique properties of photoacids, a new system for CO2 capture and concentration is being investigated. First, 10% CO2 is captured into a basic solution containing the photoacid. Then after CO2 has reached equilibrium in the aqueous solution, the photoacid is excited using UV light. Since photoacids have two distinct pKa’s, one at the ground state (pKa) and a much lower one at the excited state (pKa*), the excited state photoacid can cause protonation of the dissolved bicarbonate, thus releasing CO2 in a desired location.

Carbon dioxide capture and concentration using photoacids

ACS Spring 2022

The official archive and repository for all ACS Meetings & Expositions abstracts and select posters or presentations.