Electrochemical CO2 Capture using Porous Carbon-based Supercapacitors

Conventional CO2 capture methods replying on temperature or pressure swings are energy-intensive and costly. This project, eCapCO2, aims to develop an energy-efficient, fully electricity-driven CO2 capture system based on supercapacitive swing adsorption effect and to establish design principles for next-generation carbon capture technologies that can contribute directly to limiting global temperature rise to below 1.5 °C.Over 24 months, the project will firstly center on the rational synthesis of porous carbons with tailored surface chemistries and pore structures by design of molecular precursors and salt templates. These model carbons will be integrated as CO2 capture electrodes in supercapacitor and hybrid Zn-ion capacitors cells. By optimizing electrode structures, cell architectures, and charging protocols, this project aims to obtain high CO2 capture capacity, fast rate, and high stability while minimising energy consumption. Systematic performance evaluation and advanced solid-state NMR analysis will establish clear structure–performance relationships and provide molecular-level insights into capture mechanisms to guide rational material and device design.Expected outcomes are a high-efficiency, low-energy electrochemical CO2 capture system and transferable design principles in material structure and cell configuration. These results will accelerate the deployment of scalable carbon capture technologies aligned with European Green Deal and help address global challenges associated with climate change, including energy security and social equity in the transition to a net-zero emission future.Beyond scientific advances, the fellowship will expand the researcher's expertise from electrochemical energy storage to CO2 capture and provides training in advanced analytical methods, project management, leadership, and open science. It will also enhance international collaborations and strengthen independence, preparing her for a future group leader role.