Self-sufficient adsorption and regeneration system for CO2 capture from ambient air
Patent Information
- Application Number
- DE202025002511
- Authority / Receiving Office
- DE · DE
- Patent Type
- Utility models
- Current Assignee / Owner
- Filing Date
- 2025-08-27
- Publication Date
- 2025-10-23
- Estimated Expiration
- 2035-08-31
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Abstract
Description
Technical field
[0001] The invention relates to a self-contained, fully operational system (1) for adsorbing and regenerating carbon dioxide (CO2) from the ambient air, comprising at least one CO2 adsorption module (2), an airtight sealable regeneration chamber (3), a heating system (4), a pressure control device (5), a photovoltaic unit (6), an electrical storage unit (7), a sensor and control system (8), a CO2 guidance device (9), an alignment device (10) and a rotary actuator (11). State of the art
[0002] The capture of carbon dioxide (CO2) from ambient air is becoming increasingly important in order to reduce the rising CO2 concentration in the atmosphere and achieve climate goals. In addition to large-scale plants for CO2 capture from industrial exhaust gas streams (post-combustion capture), so-called direct air capture (DAC) systems, which extract CO2 directly from the ambient air, have recently come into focus.
[0003] Known methods for CO2 capture from air are often based on: - Amine-functionalized porous materials (e.g., on silica gel or polymers), - Inorganic sorbents such as zeolites or alkaline carbonates, - Metal-organic framework compounds (MOFs) which, due to their high specific surface area, adjustable pore structure and chemical functionalizability, exhibit a particularly high affinity for CO2.
[0004] For practical applications, these sorbents are applied to support materials such as ceramic honeycombs, metal foams, or textiles to create a mechanically stable and gas-permeable adsorption structure. Several known methods describe the use of MOF-coated, porous support materials in stationary or modular adsorption systems, but the state of the art has limitations.
[0005] Most known systems are not energy self-sufficient and require an external power or heat supply. Mechanical or automatic alignment for optimizing airflow in the direction of the wind is either unknown or not used for self-sufficient outdoor applications. The integration of all components, such as energy generation (photovoltaics), energy storage, sensor technology, airtight regeneration chambers, and CO2 storage, into a compact, modular unit has not yet been described. Object of the invention
[0006] It is therefore the object of the present invention to provide a completely self-sufficient, modular overall system for CO2 adsorption and regeneration from ambient air, which: - can be operated without an external energy supply, - features a mechanical or automatic alignment in the direction of the wind to optimize airflow, - enables efficient CO2 adsorption through the use of CO2-affine metal-organic framework compounds (MOFs) on open-pored, gas-permeable support materials, - performs a cyclical, sensor-controlled regeneration in an airtight sealed chamber, using thermal energy and pressure changes, - ensures the orderly collection and removal of the released CO2 into internal or external storage units, - can be easily scaled, maintained and transported thanks to its modular design.
[0007] Furthermore, the invention is intended to achieve improved energy efficiency by combining photovoltaic modules with energy storage units, and by selectively controlling heating elements, pumps and actuators so that energy is only consumed when needed.
[0008] Another goal is to design the overall structure in such a way that it works reliably even under changing environmental conditions (temperature, humidity, wind direction and speed) and that the CO2 capture process can be operated as independently as possible from external infrastructure.
[0009] This results in high efficiency with low maintenance intensity, and the overall system can be flexibly adapted to different locations, climatic conditions and application scenarios. Solution
[0010] The problem is solved by an autonomously operated, modular overall system for CO2 adsorption and regeneration from ambient air, comprising at least one CO2 adsorption module which has an open-pored, hydrophobically refined carrier material with a coating of a CO2-affine metal-organic framework compound (MOF), wherein the module is rotatably mounted around its own axis and can be positioned in an airtight sealable regeneration chamber.
[0011] Regeneration occurs cyclically through a combination of thermal energy input and pressure changes (underpressure or overpressure) within the chamber. The entire energy supply is provided by a photovoltaic unit with an electrical storage unit, which powers all system components, including heating elements, pumps, sensors, and actuators.
[0012] To optimize airflow, the entire system can be positioned in the direction of the wind using an alignment device with a wind fin and mechanical or electrical bearing and movement mechanism.
[0013] A CO2 guidance device directs the CO2 released during regeneration in an orderly manner into an internal or external storage container.
[0014] The adsorption and regeneration phases are controlled by sensors depending on environmental parameters. Detailed description of the invention CO2 adsorption module (2)
[0015] The CO2 adsorption module (2) comprises an open-pored, hydrophobically enhanced support material which may consist of a ceramic, metallic, polymeric, mineral or salt-based substrate.
[0016] The surface is coated with a CO2-affine metal-organic framework (MOF) which has a defined pore size, specific lattice structure and predetermined CO2 adsorption capacity.
[0017] Suitable MOFs may be selected, in particular but not exclusively, from UiO-66, UiO-67, ZIF-8, ZIF-67, Mg-MOF-74, Ni-MOF-74, HKUST-1, MIL-53, MIL-101, or functionally equivalent MOFs with comparable CO2 adsorption capacity. The CO2-affine metal-organic framework (MOF) may be in non-functionalized or functionalized form, including amine-functionalized variants such as UiO-66-NH2, NH2-MIL-53(Al), NH2-UiO-67, MIL-101(Cr)-NH2, or comparable functional MOF structures that exhibit increased CO2 adsorption capacity and selectivity, especially at low CO2 partial pressures.
[0018] To increase service life and weather resistance, the CO2 adsorption modules can be provided with a UV-stable, gas-permeable protective layer, for example in the form of a microporous polymer coating, a fine metal mesh or a nanostructured surface sealant that does not significantly impair CO2 passage but protects the MOF from UV radiation, abrasion and moisture ingress.
[0019] The MOF coating can be applied using various methods, in particular sol-gel coating, dip coating, spray coating, rotational coating, chemical vapor deposition (CVD), physical vapor deposition (PVD), electrochemical deposition, in-situ crystallization or combinations of these techniques.
[0020] The carrier material is designed to withstand the thermal and mechanical stresses of the regeneration process.
[0021] Preferably, it has a temperature resistance of at least 120 °C, particularly preferably at least 150 °C, to enable high-temperature regenerations and repeated cycles without material degradation. In combination with vacuum regeneration, the actual operating temperatures can be in the range of 60 °C to 120 °C, thereby minimizing thermal aging effects of the MOF coating.
[0022] For applications with elevated regeneration temperatures (up to approximately 250 °C), particularly temperature-stable MOFs and support materials, such as ceramic or metallic substrates, can be used. The adsorption module is mounted via a rotatable suspension with an adjustable tilt or rotation axis to adapt it to flow direction, flow velocity, and ambient conditions.
[0023] The at least one CO2 adsorption module (2) can be in different geometric configurations to allow optimal adaptation to flow conditions, mounting positions, and regeneration processes. Preferred, but not exclusive, shapes include: Cylindrical design, for example as a closed or open tube, which allows a uniform airflow from all directions and enables simple rotation around the longitudinal axis.
[0024] Lamellar or plate structure in which several flat, parallel adsorption surfaces provide a large surface area with low flow resistance.
[0025] Honeycomb structure with polygonal channels to achieve high mechanical stability and maximum flow area.
[0026] Spiral or roll structure in which the adsorption material is wound onto a support element to achieve a compact design with high packing density.
[0027] Segmented design with multiple modular adsorption elements that can be individually replaced or regenerated independently of each other.
[0028] The geometric design can be chosen to optimize flow and minimize pressure loss, while simultaneously maximizing the contact area between the airflow and the adsorption surface.
[0029] The mounting via the rotatable suspension is designed in such a way that rotation and / or tilt adjustment is possible regardless of the shape of the module.
[0030] In a preferred embodiment, the geometry of the modules can be adapted so that they can be arranged in the regeneration chamber (3) in a space-saving manner and simultaneously optimally supplied with heating and pressure control systems. Regeneration chamber (3)
[0031] The regeneration chamber (3) has at least one, preferably several controllable openings to allow a controlled flow of ambient air,
[0032] The regeneration chamber (3) is thermally insulated, airtight, and mechanically or electrically lockable. A circumferential high-temperature seal ensures sealing even under negative or positive pressure conditions.
[0033] Inside, there is a modular holding device for the precise positioning and fixing of the adsorption module (2) during thermal desorption, the holding device being rotatable or pivotable,
[0034] The regeneration chamber (3) can have at least one, preferably several controllable openings that serve to extract or selectively remove the CO2 released during regeneration.
[0035] In modular regeneration chambers, these openings are designed to be connected to each other in a plug-in system, either by positive or non-positive locking, to create a continuous flow path between several modules. The connecting elements can be plug-in, bayonet, screw, or quick-connect systems and are designed to maintain both mechanical stability and a gas-tight seal.
[0036] This ensures that the set negative or positive pressure in the chamber or the connected module system remains stable throughout the entire regeneration phase and that efficient CO2 transfer without leaks is possible. Heating system (4)
[0037] The heating system (4) is permanently integrated, electrically operated, and can be configured as a direct or indirect heating system. It enables the heating of the adsorption module (2) by inductive heating, contact heating, convection, or radiation. Temperature control is automated via the sensor system (8). The heating system (4) includes overheat protection, a thermally insulated housing, and segmentally controllable heating surfaces for zone-dependent temperature distribution. The heating system can be operated depending on the available electrical power of the photovoltaic unit (6) and the state of charge of the electrical storage unit (7). For this purpose, a power management unit can be provided that optimizes the timing of the heating cycles to make the best possible use of the renewable energy sources. Alternatively or additionally, the heating system can be designed as a hybrid system, so that it can also be operated by external energy sources when PV power is insufficient. Pressure regulating device (5)
[0038] The pressure control device (5) generates a defined negative or positive pressure in the regeneration chamber (3). It comprises an electronically controlled pump and valve system that is connected to at least one pressure sensor. Safety valves or check valves prevent overloading. Diaphragm pumps, piston pumps, or turbine-based vacuum pumps with electronically controlled speed are suitable pump systems. Photovoltaic unit (6)
[0039] The photovoltaic unit (6) comprises at least one monocrystalline or polycrystalline solar module which is fixed or trackable on the system.
[0040] MPPT control optimizes energy yield, even under diffuse light conditions. Electrical storage unit (7)
[0041] The electrical storage unit (7) comprises at least one lithium-ion battery or supercapacitor housed in a thermally insulated casing. Sensor and control system (8)
[0042] The sensor and control system (8) is designed for the continuous acquisition, processing and evaluation of all operating and environmental parameters relevant to the operation of the overall system.
[0043] For this purpose, sensors from the group consisting of temperature, pressure, humidity, CO2 concentration, VOC (volatile organic compounds), particle, flow velocity, flow direction, acceleration, vibration, tilt, attitude, position, energy flow, and power sensors can be used, individually or in combination. The sensors can be connected to a central control unit via wired or wireless connections, particularly radio protocols such as Bluetooth, WLAN, cellular networks, or comparable transmission standards. The control unit is software-based and can utilize classical control algorithms (PID, fuzzy logic) as well as adaptive control strategies or machine learning (AI) methods to adjust operating parameters in real time to changing environmental and system conditions.
[0044] The captured sensor data can be logged in internal storage or transmitted externally via a data interface (e.g. Ethernet, USB, wireless connection) to enable remote monitoring, remote control or data analysis.
[0045] The sensor system is in bidirectional communication with all controllable components of the overall system, including the alignment device (10), rotation actuator (11), heating system (4), pressure control device (5), photovoltaic unit (6), CO2 guidance device (9) and storage and safety devices.
[0046] Through holistic data acquisition and adaptive control, the overall system (1) can operate in an energy-optimized, automated and reliable manner, enabling early detection of fault conditions and automatic initiation of countermeasures. CO2 guide device (9)
[0047] The CO2 guide device (9) is designed as a thermally insulated, corrosion-resistant piping system and is connected to an internal or external storage tank. The flow path includes at least one check valve, a pressure equalization element, and optionally a CO2 conditioning unit. Alignment device (10)
[0048] The alignment device (10) preferably comprises a wind fin (10a) which is attached to the outer region of the overall system (1) via a retaining or lever structure (10b) and secured by a lever arm aligned in the direction of flow. The length, stiffness, and angle of attack of this lever arm are matched to the mass and flow resistance of the overall system such that a high alignment torque is generated while simultaneously minimizing the fin's inherent resistance.
[0049] The wind fin (10a) is arranged in combination with a rotatable bearing and movement mechanism (10c). The wind fin can be designed in different shapes and geometries to adapt aerodynamic properties, alignment precision, and structural stability to the operating conditions.
[0050] Preferred, but not exclusive, embodiments include: Rectangular fin with clearly defined edges for high alignment stability in moderate winds.
[0051] Triangular or trapezoidal fin that combines low drag with precise wind tracking.
[0052] Drop or teardrop shape for reduced turbulence and even load distribution at higher wind speeds.
[0053] Crescent or curved shape for optimized flow adaptation and high directional stability.
[0054] Multi-part fin with adjustable segments to adapt the surface area to changing wind strengths.
[0055] Grid or perforated structure to reduce air resistance in strong winds, while still maintaining an aligning force.
[0056] Double fin system in which two smaller fins are arranged at different distances from the axis of rotation to increase tracking precision.
[0057] The alignment can be passive-mechanical via holding or lever structure (10b) or active via servo drives controlled by the sensor and control system (8).
[0058] Optionally, a stabilization device against gusts of wind can be integrated, e.g. in the form of damping elements, end stop limits or vibration absorbers.
[0059] The design of the wind fin (10a) is chosen so that, in combination with the rotatable bearing and movement mechanism (10c), it enables a quick and precise alignment of the entire system (1) in the direction of the wind and is robust against mechanical loads from wind and vibrations.
[0060] The dimensioning of the alignment device (10) and the wind fin is carried out taking into account the tilting moments and torsional forces that occur at the maximum permissible wind load, whereby a safety factor of at least 1.5 is preferred.
[0061] To ensure stability and operational safety at high wind speeds, the overall system (1) can be provided with a stable base, a ballasted underframe or a ground anchor. Rotary actuator (11)
[0062] The rotary actuator (11) serves to rotate the adsorption module (2) about its own axis. This rotation can be electromechanical, sensor-based, or mechanical, driven by the airflow. Encapsulated mounting protects against external environmental influences.
[0063] In a further preferred embodiment, the at least one CO2 adsorption module (2) is geometrically shaped in such a way that, in addition to its adsorption function, it also acts as an aerodynamically effective wind catcher.
[0064] For this purpose, the MOF-coated carrier materials are designed in such a way that their outer shape allows a targeted flow of wind and thereby generates a torque around the rotational axis of the module.
[0065] The shape can be selected from aerodynamically optimized geometries such as Savonius, Darrieus, helix, wing / lamella, blade or honeycomb profiles, or functional combinations of these profiles.
[0066] This design eliminates the need for separate wings or rotors, as the CO2 adsorption module (2) itself acts as an active aerodynamic component.
[0067] The rotation induced by the wind flow can be transferred directly or via a coupling to a generator to produce electrical energy. the design of the module geometry takes into account both the flow optimization for CO2 adsorption and energy generation.
[0068] The generated electrical energy can be used directly to supply the system components, in particular the heating systems (4), pressure control device (5), sensors (8) or actuators (11), or can be temporarily stored in the electrical storage unit.
[0069] A control unit can adaptively regulate the energy generation mode to achieve an optimal balance between flow guidance, adsorption efficiency and energy recovery, depending on the operating phase (adsorption or regeneration). Reference symbol list 1 Total system 2 CO2 adsorption module 3 Regeneration chamber 4 Heating system 5 Pressure regulating device 6 photovoltaic units 7 Electrical storage unit 8 Sensor and control system 9 CO2 guide device 10 Alignment device 10a Wind fin 10b Rotating bearing and motion mechanics 10c lever arm 11 Rotary Actuators Fig. 1: Sectional view of the overall system (1) Fig. 2: Schematic representation of a locking mechanism of the regeneration chamber (3) Fig. 3: Example of an alignment device (10) with wind fin (10a) and lever arm (10c). Fig. 4 Side view of a CO2 adsorption module (2)
Claims
[1] Complete system (1) for CO2 adsorption and regeneration, which can be operated autonomously and includes at least the following components:
1. at least one CO2 adsorption module (2) comprising an open-pored, hydrophobically treated support material with a coating of a CO2-affine metal-organic framework compound (MOF), wherein the adsorption module is positionable in operation by means of a suspension and rotatable about its own axis, 2. an airtight sealable regeneration chamber (3) in which at least one adsorption module for thermal desorption can be positioned, 3. a heating system (4) designed to directly or indirectly heat the at least one adsorption module within the regeneration chamber, 4. a pressure regulating device (5) comprising a device for generating a negative or positive pressure in the regeneration chamber to assist CO2 desorption, 5. a photovoltaic unit (6) which serves to provide electrical energy autonomously for the overall system, 6. an electrical storage unit (7) for intermediate storage of the electrical energy generated by the photovoltaic unit, 7. a sensor and control system (8) designed to acquire, process and evaluate all operating and environmental parameters relevant to the operation of the overall system, 8. a CO2 guidance device (9) designed for the targeted collection, guidance and optional storage of the CO2 released during regeneration in an internal or external storage container, 9. an alignment device (10) for automated or mechanical positioning of the overall system in the direction of the wind, comprising a wind fin (10a) as well as a bearing and motion mechanism and / or servo drives (10b), 10. an actuator (11) for rotatable mounting and targeted rotation of the at least one CO2 adsorption module around its own axis to optimize airflow and adsorption efficiency. [2] The system according to claim 1, wherein the CO2 adsorption module comprises an open-pored, hydrophobically modified support material made of ceramic, metallic, polymeric, mineral or salt-based substrate, the surface of which is coated with a CO2-affine metal-organic framework compound (MOF) selected from UiO-66, ZIF-8, UiO-67 or a functionally equivalent metal-organic framework compound with comparable or better CO2 adsorption capacity, wherein the CO2-affine metal-organic framework compound is present in non-functionalized or functionalized form, including amine-functionalized variants, wherein the substrate material has a UV-stable design or surface treatment to prevent photochemical degradation of the MOF coating during long-term exposure to sunlight, wherein the MOF coating has a defined pore size, a specific lattice structure and a predetermined CO2 adsorption capacity, and the adsorption module is attached via a rotatably mounted suspension with an adjustable tilt or rotation axis, so that targeted adaptation to flow direction, flow velocity and environmental conditions is possible. [3] The system according to any of the preceding claims, wherein the regeneration chamber has at least one, preferably several controllable openings to allow a targeted flow of ambient air, wherein the regeneration chamber is designed as a thermally insulated, mechanically or electrically lockable chamber with a circumferential high-temperature seal that ensures an airtight seal even under negative or positive pressure conditions, wherein a modular holding device is arranged in the interior that enables precise positioning and fixing of the at least one adsorption module during thermal desorption, wherein the interior of the regeneration chamber has at least one, preferably several controllable openings for extracting or selectively removing the CO2 released during regeneration, and wherein the openings in modular regeneration chambers are designed in such a way that they can be connected to each other in a form-fit or force-fit manner in the form of a plug-in system, in order to form a continuous flow path, wherein the connecting elements are designed in such a way as to ensure the tightness of the connection and the maintenance of the set underpressure or overpressure in the chamber, wherein the holding device is designed as a rotatable suspension in order to bring the adsorption module into a flow-optimized position during desorption. [4] The system according to any of the preceding claims, wherein the heating system is designed as a permanently integrated, electrically operated direct or indirect heating system, which enables targeted heating of at least one adsorption module within the regeneration chamber by inductive heating, contact heating, convection heating or radiant heating, where the temperature control is automated based on sensor signals, and the heating system is additionally equipped with overheat protection and a thermally insulating housing area, and wherein the heating system has a segmentally controllable heating surface that enables a zone-dependent temperature distribution within the regeneration chamber. [5] The system according to any of the preceding claims, wherein the pressure regulating device comprises an electronically controlled pump and valve system designed to selectively generate and maintain a defined negative or positive pressure in the regeneration chamber, where the control is achieved through feedback with at least one pressure sensor inside the chamber, the pressure regulating device has safety valves or check valves to prevent system overload, and wherein the pump system is designed as a diaphragm pump, piston pump or turbine-based vacuum pump, with electronically controlled timing or speed control. [6] The system according to any of the preceding claims, wherein the photovoltaic unit comprises at least one monocrystalline or polycrystalline solar module which is fixedly or trackably connected to the overall system, the generated electrical energy is used to supply the entire system including sensors, actuators, heating elements and control technology, the solar module is designed in such a way that a basic supply is guaranteed even under diffuse light conditions, and wherein the photovoltaic unit includes a tracking alignment unit with respect to the position of the sun as well as an MPPT controller. [7] The system according to any of the preceding claims, wherein the electrical storage unit comprises at least one lithium-ion battery or one supercapacitor housed in a thermally insulated module housing. [8] The system according to claim 1, wherein the sensor and control system includes at least one temperature, pressure, humidity, CO2 concentration, VOC or particle sensor, a flow velocity sensor, a flow direction sensor, an acceleration or vibration sensor, includes a tilt or position sensor and at least one energy flow or power measurement sensor, and wherein the sensors are connected to a central control unit either wired or wirelessly, wherein the control unit processes the sensor data using software, preferably with the aid of adaptive algorithms or machine learning, in order to adjust the operating parameters of the overall system in real time, the system also includes a data interface for external monitoring, remote control or logging, wherein the sensor system is in communication connection with all controllable components of the system and monitors and controls their functions, and wherein the sensors are arranged in such a way that both operating parameters inside the regeneration chamber and environmental conditions can be recorded. [9] The system according to any of the preceding claims, wherein the CO2 guidance device comprises a thermally insulated, corrosion-resistant piping system connected via a controllable flow path to an internal or external storage container, wherein the flow path is equipped with at least one check valve, a pressure equalization element and an optional CO2 conditioning unit to enable controlled, low-loss discharge, intermediate buffering or use of the regenerated CO2. [10] The system according to any of the preceding claims, wherein the wind fin is attached to the outer area of the overall system via a holding or lever structure (10c), wherein the length, stiffness and angle of attack of this structure are designed to generate a high aligning moment with minimal drag of the wind fin in order to ensure fast and stable orientation of the system in the prevailing wind direction, wherein the wind fin has a sufficient surface area for aligning the entire system in the direction of the wind and can be available in different geometric designs, selected from rectangular, triangular, trapezoidal, teardrop or tear-shaped, crescent-shaped, multi-part, grid or perforated as well as double fin designs, where the projected area of the wind fin is dimensioned depending on the total mass of the system and its scalability, wherein the alignment device comprises a wind fin in combination with a rotatable bearing and movement mechanism, and wherein the tracking device additionally calculates and automatically adjusts an optimal orientation of the module based on weather data, tilt sensors or GPS position, and wherein the positioning of the overall system in the direction of the wind is either by a) a passive mechanical self-adjustment via lever arms, or b) a sensor-based, electrically controlled alignment is carried out by means of servo drives, wherein the device is additionally stabilized against gusts of wind, vibrations or misalignments by an integrated damping device or end stop limitation, wherein the overall system has a stable base, a ballasted underframe or a ground anchoring to ensure operational safety at high wind speeds. [11] The system according to any of the preceding claims, wherein the rotary actuator for rotating the at least one CO2 adsorption module around its own axis is designed in such a way that it can be implemented in different drive types, selected from electric motor direct drive, electric motor gear drive, sensor-based controlled drive, periodic drive, pneumatic or hydraulic drive as well as mechanically acting self-rotation mechanism based on the oncoming air, wherein the bearing is encapsulated and protected against external environmental influences and can be designed in various bearing types, including ball bearings, roller bearings, plain bearings or magnetically levitated bearings, where the dimensioning and performance of the rotary actuator is adapted depending on the total mass and scalability of the system, and wherein the rotation speed, direction of rotation and stop position can be variably controlled in order to adapt a flow-optimized alignment of the adsorption module to changing wind and flow conditions. [12] The system according to any of the preceding claims, wherein the at least one CO2 adsorption module is shaped as an aerodynamically effective wind catcher, wherein the MOF-coated substrate materials have an external geometry which, when exposed to wind, generates a torque about the rotational axis of the module, and wherein the geometry is selected from Savonius, Darrieus, helix, wing / lamella, blade, honeycomb profiles or functional combinations of these profiles, so that the rotation can be used both for flow optimization for CO2 adsorption and for generating electrical energy.