ETH Zurich Develops High-Performance Water-Based Membrane for CO2 Separation
ETH Zurich researchers have created a water-based membrane that enhances carbon dioxide separation efficiency, surpassing traditional methods. This innovation could reduce reliance on energy-intensive carbon capture technologies.

Researchers at ETH Zurich have developed a novel water-based membrane that offers improved selectivity and permeability for carbon dioxide separation compared to conventional techniques like cryogenic separation and amine scrubbing. The membrane's function relies on a thin layer of water with hydrophilic nanopores, allowing gases to dissolve, diffuse, and desorb.
The project, led by Kian P. Lopez and Anthony Straub, initially aimed at creating a stable beverage but shifted focus to gas separation upon observing different permeation rates of nitrogen and carbon dioxide.
The membrane's performance may lead to reduced environmental impact in carbon capture applications. The development aligns with previous research on biologically inspired membranes, like the memzyme created in 2018, which utilized natural enzymes for CO2 capture.




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