Basics and latest technology trends of CO2 capture using DAC technology

Understanding CO2 Capture and Its Importance

Carbon dioxide (CO2) is a significant greenhouse gas contributing to climate change, primarily released from burning fossil fuels.
With the global focus on reducing carbon footprints, efforts to capture CO2 are more important than ever.

One promising technology is Direct Air Capture (DAC), which captures CO2 directly from the air and stores it.
The captured CO2 can then be stored underground or used in various industrial processes, such as creating synthetic fuels or enhancing plant growth in greenhouses.

These processes can play a crucial role in lowering the concentration of CO2 in the atmosphere, mitigating global warming effects.

What is Direct Air Capture (DAC)?

Direct Air Capture is a high-tech carbon removal method that captures CO2 directly from the atmosphere.
Unlike point source carbon capture technologies, like those used in industrial facilities, DAC can be installed in any location, making it extremely versatile.

DAC systems typically use large fans to draw air into contact with chemical sorbents or filters designed to selectively capture CO2.
The captured CO2 is then separated from the sorbent, which can be reused in the process, and stored safely.

How Does DAC Work?

There are two primary approaches to DAC – liquid and solid systems.

In a liquid system, air is passed over a chemical solution, often a hydroxide or carbonate, which captures the CO2 as it forms a carbonate compound.
The CO2 is then extracted from this solution with additional chemicals or heat, and the solution is regenerated to be reused.

For solid systems, air is passed over solid filters coated with chemicals that absorb CO2.
Once saturated, these filters are heated to release the captured CO2, allowing for its storage or reuse, while the filters can be reused.

The Role of DAC in Carbon Reduction Strategies

DAC technology is a part of a larger set of carbon reduction strategies, including reducing emissions at source, reforestation, and improving energy efficiency.
Its primary role is to address the ‘hard-to-abate’ sectors, where direct emissions reductions are challenging or expensive.

With its ability to capture CO2 from any location, DAC can serve as a flexible tool for achieving climate goals, particularly in regions lacking low-carbon technologies.

Moreover, DAC can also create negative emissions.
When powered by renewable energy sources, it can result in a net reduction of atmospheric CO2, an essential aspect of meeting the Paris Agreement targets.

Recent Advances and Trends in DAC Technology

DAC technology has seen substantial advancements in recent years, making it more efficient and cost-effective.

One trend is the development of new materials.
Research is focusing on finding materials with higher CO2 uptake capacities, faster reaction times, and lower energy requirements for CO2 release, which can significantly improve overall efficiency.

Several companies and start-ups are also obtaining governmental and private sector investments to scale up DAC operations.

Countries are recognizing the importance of scaling up DAC, evident in policy supports and financial incentives.
This investment is crucial, because current DAC systems are often costly, and scaling up directly reduces per-tonne CO2 capture costs.

Integration with Renewable Energy Sources

Integration with renewable energy is another critical trend.
By using wind, solar, or hydroelectric power to operate DAC systems, the technology’s carbon footprint can be minimized, enhancing its viability as a truly sustainable solution.
Some facilities are even colocated with large renewable energy sources to capitalize on direct, low-cost power.

Challenges Facing DAC Technology

Despite promising advancements, DAC technology faces several challenges that need to be addressed.

The cost remains a significant barrier.
It is estimated that DAC costs between $100 to $600 per tonne of CO2, limiting its current widespread deployment.

Additionally, energy requirements are high.
Large DAC systems demand considerable power.
Solutions involve optimizing operational energy usage and integrating low-carbon power sources to mitigate this issue.

Another challenge is the development of efficient storage solutions for the captured CO2.
Current storage techniques such as geological sequestration require specific conditions and locations, limiting where captured CO2 can be stored.

The Future of DAC Technology

While challenges remain, the future of DAC looks promising.

Continued research and development are paving the way for breakthroughs that could dramatically reduce costs and energy demands, increasing the technology’s appeal.

The push for global carbon neutrality targets is driving investment and innovation in DAC technology, emphasizing its potential role in a sustainable future.

The Role of Policy and Regulation

Supportive policy and regulatory environments will be crucial for DAC’s future.
Governments can encourage adoption through subsidies, tax incentives, or carbon pricing mechanisms.

Cooperation between nations will also facilitate technology sharing and best practices, expediting global adoption.

As DAC technology evolves, its integration within broader climate policies will play a key role in combating climate change while providing economic opportunities globally.