Within the CO2 capture processes, the membrane separation processes can be applied from pre-combustion (CO2-H2 / CO2– CH4 separation) to post-combustion (CO2-N2) and oxyfuel (O2-N2). However, current materials lack the separation performance and durability needed for an efficient and economically feasible exploitation of such technology. The project will seek strong collaboration with Korean counterparts on the basis of a common research path and strategy.
Overview of the NANOMEMC2 project
Through the development of innovative materials, membranes and membrane processes for CO2 capture, the NANOMEMC2 project aims to make a substantial reduction in energy penalty, much lower cost and CO2 emissions reduction possible. If achieved, this technology will allow for a radical change in the deployment of Carbon Capture and Storage (CCS) technologies across EU industry, unleashing its potential for significant CO2 emissions savings, which are key to reaching European targets for a more sustainable industry.
Objectives of the project: developing matrix membranes to facilitated transport mechanisms
The NANOMEMC2 project aims to overcome the current limitation by focusing on the development of innovative CO2 selective membranes with high flux and selectivity suitable for application to both pre and post-combustion capture processes.
- A nano-composite or mixed matrix membranes will be developed with particular focus on facilitated transport mechanisms promoted by carrier attached to the polymer or the filler.
- Graphene-based nanoplatelets and cellulose nano-fibers will be studied in detail along with possible modification to improve polymer compatibility and affinity with CO2.
- New generations of Facilitated Transport Mixed Matrix (FTMM) and Continuous Phase Mixed Matrix membranes for CCS applications will be developed with increased performance for both pre-combustion and post-combustion capture. Both hydrogen-selective (for pre-combustion) and CO2 selective membranes (for both pre and post combustion) will be developed targeting flux and selectivity beyond the current performance for industrial deployment of carbon capture membrane technologies.
Our involvement in the NANOMEMC2 project
We are leading LCA and techno-economic assessment activities and participate in the main industrial testing activities to collect relevant data for LCA and techno-economic assessment. Furthermore, we are responsible for the following activities:
- We identify main stakeholders for NANOMEMC2.
- We perform mapping of the research and innovation actions.
- We write a business and exploitation plan for the project.
- We oversee dissemination strategy and activities to ensure visibility and high-quality marketing for the project.
