Carbon Capture Process Simplifications and Performance Improvements Using Novel Polymer Membranes for the Facilitated Transport of CO2

In order to dramatically reduce CO2 emissions from coalfired power plants, and mitigate their impact on global climate change, DOE has called for technologies that can capture at least 90% of CO2 emissions from an existing coalfired power plant with no more than a 35% increase in the cost of electricity (COE). One technology with the potential to achieve these goals is through the use of advanced polymer membranes which separate CO2 from the other flue gas components. However, significant research in polymer membrane materials is still needed to improve their efficiencies and performances. This project will develop novel polymer membranes that utilize a mechanism known as facilitated transport which can dramatically increase CO2 throughput and separation efficiency, providing the cost and energy efficiencies needed to meet DOE goals. Novel, polymer membranes that enable facilitated transport of CO2 will be taken from the laboratory bench scale in preparation of testing on actual flue gas at a coalfired power plant. Commercial Applications and Other Benefits: Future applications of this advanced membrane technology include highly energy efficient removal of CO2 (and other gases) from flue gases and natural gas, enabling the economical production of clean energy using conventional fuels while minimizing additional costs to the public. Additional applications of these membranes may include fuel cells and biomaterials.