A Physics-Based Modelling Approach Towards Scalable Direct Air Capture

Direct air capture is a promising technique for reducing atmospheric greenhouse gas concentrations. However, the question remains of whether it can be scaled to the industrial levels required to significantly mitigate global climate change. This project seeks to tackle this question, placing a specific focus on the fundamental physics that underpins the nascent direct air capture processes, hence evaluating their scalability from a scientific perspective.

In particular, this project centers on an emergent and poorly understood method known as Supercapacitive Swing Adsorption. It uses modelling to identify the physical and operational factors that may limit upscaling and the implications for feasible deployment. This work builds upon recent research by the Forse group at the University of Cambridge and will inform ongoing debates around the appropriate use of carbon capture technologies.