This project aims to reduce the costs associated with post-combustion capture of carbon dioxide. Studies are conducted to enhance the mass transfer rates and overall rates of carbon dioxide absorption, thereby reducing the materials and operation cost. This is achieved with the addition of nanostructured materials and enzyme-enhanced sorbents to enhance adsorption of CO2. As an alternative to amines, other lower-cost solvents such as carbonates are examined. This will significantly reduce the cost of the CO2 capture in conventional coal combustion systems. Enhanced surface areas are developed by using novel spray systems for the amines and various carbonate/bicarbonate sorbents.
