(1) WP-1: Construction of an Industrial CO2 Capture Prototype (0-12 months): Within the first 12 months of the grant, we successfully established an industrial demonstrator whose design features are based on data from smaller prototypes accomplished through previous grants. The unit can capture tonne quantities of CO2/annum, operating at air flow rates of >1000 m³/h. Key design features include copper, water-based heat exchanger tubes integrated into the adsorber bed, in line with our previous European patent applications. The objectives for the demonstrator construction were fully achieved within the planned timeframe. The team is now optimizing process parameters and performance.
(2) WP-1: Multiple Adsorber Systems (0-18 months): Over the past 12 months, notable progress has been made on assembling the laboratory capture test rig, designed to include four independently addressable contactors (each with ~500 g adsorbent capacity). The individual contactor vessels have been successfully constructed, and the assembly of the proposed rig is nearing completion. Once fully operational, the test rig will allow precise variation of air velocities, regeneration temperatures, vacuum conditions, and energy consumption measurements. Preliminary analyses suggest that synchronizing multiple capture units will enable internal energy savings of approximately 30% by optimizing heating and cooling processes of individual contactors.
(3) WP1: Adsorbent Optimization (0-24 months): Significant advancements have been made in optimizing CO2 adsorbents during the initial phases of this 24-month objective. Our target materials are cost-effective, available in large quantities, and exhibit excellent stability under DAC operational conditions. Ongoing efforts focus on enhancing synthetic procedures to increase primary aliphatic amine content for higher CO2 sorption capacities and reduced operational costs. Current development prioritizes green synthetic methods, avoiding organic solvents, and employing readily available reagents. Preliminary results highlight the potential of macroporous organic polymers; the initial adsorbent was modified in a single functionalization step, leveraging the reactivity between chlorine moieties and amine groups to enhance the amine content. This cost-effective method improved the CO2 capture performance of the amine-functionalized porous polystyrene by ~40%. Research also focuses on amine functionalization of new sustainable adsorbents that may derive from biomass.
(4) WP-2: Activities for External Validation of AirInMotion (Planning 0-12 months; Deployment 15-36 months): Planning for the external validation of AirInMotion and deploying the prototype at industrial partners is progressing as proposed. Meetings with relevant stakeholders facilitated the exchange of operational parameters and assessment of site-specific deployment constraints. Deployment of the technology at industrial sites is advancing. Numerous meetings with CERN representatives organised the work program for technology deployment. Additionally, deployment is being organized at sites of a National Irish electricity provider to demonstrate the technology at one of their power plants utilizing waste heat.
(5) WP-3: Commercial Strategy Development (0-36 months): Significant progress has been made in fostering relationships with industry partners, performing market analyses, and identifying potential customers and stakeholders. These activities aim to establish permanent CO2 capture plants at customer sites. Meetings with multinational CO2 users, waste heat suppliers, and venture capital providers helped identify early adopters, strategic partners, and funding opportunities. The drafted business plan defines the strategy, market, revenue model, and funding requirements for the spin-out. Strategic planning is on track to support a smooth transition toward establishing the commercial entity. Regular meetings with the Trinity College Technology Transfer Office defined IP transfer terms and timelines for the spin-out.
