18 June 2026
Alternative carbon capture technology can improve efficiency
Research at Luleå University of Technology shows that a new type of liquid-based system can capture more than 97 percent of the carbon dioxide in flue gases. The results could contribute to more efficient and sustainable carbon capture in industry.
Reducing carbon dioxide emissions is a key challenge in the transition to a sustainable energy system. Amine-based systems are commonly used for carbon capture, but they have limitations in terms of energy consumption and stability.
In her doctoral thesis, Sahar Foorginezhad, Doctoral Student in Energy Engineering at Luleå University of Technology, has developed and tested alternative solutions based on so-called deep eutectic solvents, a type of tailor-made liquids capable of binding carbon dioxide efficiently.
“Our results show that it is possible to achieve high capture efficiency while improving stability and energy efficiency,” says Sahar Foorginezhad.
Sahar Foorginezhad, doctoral student in energy engineering at Luleå University of Technology.
Higher capacity and faster capture
The research shows that the developed systems can capture more carbon dioxide than current standard solutions. Tests demonstrated both higher absorption capacity and faster capture rates.
To the researchers’ knowledge, this is the first time that two established strategies for improving this type of absorbent have been systematically combined and evaluated for carbon capture. The results show that the combination can improve both capacity and stability.
“What makes these findings particularly interesting is that we are not only improving carbon uptake but also improving system stability and long-term usability,” says Sahar Foorginezhad.
Tested with real flue gas
To demonstrate practical applicability, the systems were tested using both synthetic gas mixtures and real flue gas from biomass combustion. The aqueous systems achieved carbon capture efficiencies above 97 percent.
Stability and reusability were also investigated, showing that the systems can be used over multiple cycles without significant performance loss.
The absorbent developed in the research is already being used in a CO₂ capture pilot plant at RISE in Piteå, where it is being tested with flue gases under more realistic operating conditions.
“The fact that the same absorbent is already being used in a pilot plant shows that the research has taken an important step from laboratory studies towards real-world applications,” says Sahar Foorginezhad.
Contact
Sahar Foorginezhad
- Doctoral student
- 0920-491235
- sahar.foorginezhad@ltu.se
- Sahar Foorginezhad
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