Researchers at the Institute of Combustion Problems in Kazakhstan have made significant strides in carbon capture technology using an innovative approach that leverages agricultural waste. Led by Gaukhar Yergaziyeva, the team has developed lithium-containing sorbents derived from rice waste, which show promise for capturing carbon dioxide (CO2) at high temperatures.
This research addresses a critical need in the fight against climate change. With many countries committing to net-zero carbon emissions by 2050, effective carbon capture, utilization, and storage (CCUS) technologies are becoming increasingly essential. Traditional methods, such as amine-based solvents, have proven effective but come with high energy demands and environmental concerns. In contrast, solid adsorbents, like those developed in this study, offer a more sustainable solution.
The team’s findings indicate that the sorbent known as 11LiK/SiO2 can achieve a CO2 sorption capacity of 36% at 500 °C. This impressive performance is attributed to the formation of lithium orthosilicate within the sorbent and an increase in its specific surface area. Importantly, after undergoing 12 cycles of sorption and desorption, the loss in sorption capacity was just 8%, indicating strong thermal stability and durability. Yergaziyeva noted, “The results showed that rice waste-based sorbents can be used as high-temperature sorbents for carbon dioxide capture.”
Utilizing rice waste not only enhances the sorbent’s performance but also provides an eco-friendly and cost-effective method of production. This approach can significantly reduce pollution associated with agricultural waste while contributing to global efforts to mitigate climate change. The potential commercial applications for this technology are vast, particularly in industries reliant on fossil fuels, where efficient carbon capture can lead to lower emissions and compliance with regulatory standards.
The study highlights an opportunity for the energy sector to explore sustainable materials for carbon capture. As industries seek to reduce their carbon footprint, the development of such innovative sorbents could play a pivotal role in achieving carbon neutrality goals.
This groundbreaking research, published in the Journal of Composites Science, not only advances the field of carbon capture but also emphasizes the importance of utilizing agricultural by-products in creating effective and environmentally friendly solutions for one of the most pressing challenges of our time.
