today’s cyclodextrin: Capturing CO2 with (or without) CDs
Researchers at the University of California, Berkeley, have developed a material named COF-999, a fluffy yellow powder capable of capturing carbon dioxide (CO₂) from the atmosphere with remarkable efficiency. Just under half a pound (approximately 200 grams) of COF-999 can absorb about 44 pounds (20 kilograms) of CO₂ annually, matching the carbon sequestration capacity of a mature tree over the same period.
COF-999 is a covalent organic framework (COF) characterized by its porous structure, which provides a large surface area for gas adsorption. The internal surfaces of this material are lined with amines—compounds that effectively bind to CO₂ molecules. When air passes through COF-999, the amines capture CO₂, and the gas can later be released by heating the material to about 140°F (60°C), allowing for repeated use. Notably, COF-999 has demonstrated stability over at least 100 adsorption-desorption cycles without degradation.
This innovation holds significant promise for direct air capture (DAC) technologies, which aim to reduce atmospheric CO₂ levels to mitigate climate change. The efficiency and durability of COF-999 could enhance the viability of DAC systems, potentially accelerating efforts to lower greenhouse gas concentrations in the atmosphere.
But did you know that cyclodextrins can be used for carbon-dioxide capturing too?
Cyclodextrins (CDs), cyclic oligosaccharides, are studied as potential CO2 capture agents due to their unique molecular structures and high selectivity towards CO2 – a paper from Mikael Bols
CO2 complexation with cyclodextrins – PMC
