In the quest for sustainable energy solutions, a breakthrough from UCLouvain in Belgium is capturing attention. Researchers have developed a recyclable, bio-based membrane that could revolutionize carbon capture and utilization (CCU) technologies. This innovation, led by Kamyll Dawn Cocon from the Materials and Process Engineering department, offers a greener alternative to conventional fossil-based membranes, paving the way for more energy-efficient and circular CCU processes.
The study, published in Carbon Capture Science & Technology, introduces a membrane contactor made from polylactic acid (PLA), a renewable and sustainable biopolymer. Unlike traditional membranes that rely on toxic solvents and fossil-based polymers, this bio-based membrane promises a more environmentally friendly approach to carbon capture.
Cocon and her team investigated how various factors, such as polymer concentration, molecular weight, crystallinity, and solvent type, influence the membrane’s morphology and CO2 capture performance. They discovered that higher polymer concentration and molecular weight increased sponge-like structures, while solvents with stronger solvating power promoted finger-like morphologies. Interestingly, initial polymer crystallinity did not affect membrane morphology, but crystallinity induced during synthesis supported sponge-like structures.
The results are promising. Membranes made with high molecular weight PLA and wide finger-like morphologies demonstrated stable CO2 capture performance, comparable to commercial polyvinylidene fluoride (PVDF) membranes. Moreover, the recycled membranes retained their CO2 capture performance over five cycles, highlighting their potential for long-term use.
“This study highlights the potential of bio-based membranes to enable energy-efficient and circular CO2 capture,” Cocon said. “We’re taking significant steps toward greener, more sustainable CCU technologies.”
The implications for the energy sector are substantial. As the world races to meet ambitious climate goals, the demand for sustainable and carbon-neutral technologies is growing. This bio-based membrane could reduce energy demands during the capture process, making CCU a more viable option for closing the carbon cycle.
The research also underscores the importance of circularity in CCU technologies. By demonstrating the recyclability of the PLA membranes, Cocon and her team have shown that it’s possible to create sustainable, long-lasting solutions for carbon capture.
As the energy sector continues to evolve, innovations like this bio-based membrane could shape future developments in the field. By offering a greener, more sustainable alternative to conventional membranes, this research could help accelerate the transition to a low-carbon economy. The study, published in Carbon Capture Science & Technology, is a significant step forward in the quest for sustainable energy solutions.
