Tianjin University Engineers Breakthrough in Carbon Capture Membranes

The study, published in Nature Energy, introduces a membrane utilizing single-crystal covalent organic frameworks to facilitate rapid molecular transport. Traditional mixed-matrix membranes often suffer from particle aggregation or blocked pathways, but professors Jiang Zhongyi and He Guangwei bypassed these limitations by balancing interactions between filler particles and the surrounding polymer matrix. This approach preserves the necessary flexibility for large-scale manufacturing while maintaining high performance.

Testing against simulated industrial flue gas demonstrated a tenfold increase in permeability compared to previous benchmarks. Crucially, the material maintained stability even when exposed to contaminants like water vapor, sulfur oxides, and nitrogen oxides. A preliminary techno-economic analysis suggests the technology could bring carbon capture costs down to approximately 38 dollars per tonne, offering a viable economic incentive for heavy industries aiming to decarbonize their output.