New Technique Removes CO2 from Air Using Water and Nanomaterials

Researchers at Northwestern University have developed a new technique to remove CO2 from the air using water and nanomaterials. This method uses inexpensive nanomaterials like activated carbon and aluminum oxide, instead of filters or liquids containing amines. The process relies on humidity fluctuations around the nanomaterials. When wet, they absorb CO2, trapping it in fine pores. When dried, the CO2 is released and can be captured. This captured CO2 can be compressed into geological formations or used to produce fuels and heating materials.