Apparatus and methods of buoyancy-driven natural ventilation

Abstract

The present disclosures provides methods and apparatuses for ventilating air and capturing carbon dioxide directly from the atmosphere. The apparatus comprises: a first structure, the first structure comprising: a first top, the first top having one or more openings; a first base; a plurality of first walls connected to and extending away from the first base, wherein one or more of the plurality of first walls of the first structure have light or heat absorbing properties; a second structure, the second structure comprising: a second top; a second base; a plurality of second walls connected to and extending away from tire second base, wherein one or more of the plurality of second walls of the second structure have light or heat absorbing properties; wherein: the first structure is disposed above the second structure; and the first and second structures define an enclosure within the apparatus.

Description

[0001] APPARATUS AND METHODS OF BUOYANCY-DRIVEN NATURAE VENTILATION

[0002] 1. BACKGROUND

[0003] Concentrations of greenhouse gases, such as carbon dioxide, nitrous oxide and methane, are increasing in the atmosphere. As a result, the average temperatures at the surface of the earth are increasing and are expected to continue to rise. Carbon dioxide (CO2) is responsible for most of this increase. Each year, human activities release more CO2 into the atmosphere than natural processes can remove, causing the amount of CO2 in the atmosphere to increase. One way to combat global warming is to convert to carbon-neutral / negative energy and transport systems. In addition to reducing emissions, over the next 100 years, the civilized world will need to remove 1-2 trillion metric tons of CO2 from the atmosphere.

[0004] There is a long-standing need to remove CO2 efficiently and cost-effectively from the atmosphere or directly from a point source. As used herein, a “point source” refers to any single identifiable source of pollution from which pollutants are discharged, such as a discharge pipe, power generation flue stack, drainage ditch, and ship or factory smokestack. There are two methodologies for carbon removal: naturebased and technology-based methods.

[0005] Nature-based carbon removal methods use existing natural processes that remove CO2 from the atmosphere and enhance them. For example, they use forests and oceans as carbon sinks to absorb more carbon than they release. Thus, allowing forests to regrow, restoring coastal wetlands, and using restorative agricultural practices capture CO2 from the air and sequester it in plants, soils, and sediments.

[0006] Technology-based solutions use technology to remove CO2 from the atmosphere. Direct air capture (DAC) uses large fans to move air through a filter to absorb CO2 (i.e., a forced air system). Forced air systems are typically powered, at least in part, by fossil fuel-generated electricity. Direct air carbon capture and storage (DACCS) extracts CO2 from the air and stores it in geological formations underground. Bioenergy with carbon capture and storage (BECCS) uses atmospheric CO2 absorbed by plants. The plants are burned to produce energy and release CO2, which, in turn, is captured and stored underground.

[0007] Unfortunately, many of the carbon removal technologies are expensive, requiring high-cost capital equipment and a significant amount of energy. For example, because the concentration of CO2 in the atmosphere, at a point source, or as a process by-product is dilute, large amounts of energy are needed for, Carbon Capture or DACCS. In addition, the compression requirements for deep-well injection require suitable geology, long-term subsurface monitoring, compression equipment and energy and proper risk assessment with applicable insurability standards.

[0008] Methods of isolating CO2 on reactive minerals (such as alkaline or alkaline earth hydroxides) are well-known. In a typical process, limestone is calcined or otherwise roasted to produce calcium oxide (CaO or quicklime). Calcium oxide can be reacted with water to produce calcium hydroxide (Ca(0H)2 or slaked lime). Calcium hydroxide, in turn, can be reacted with atmospheric CO2 to form calcium carbonate (CaCOs). However, such methods are not practical for large-scale CO2 removal because they require processing with chemicals or high temperatures, expensive capital equipment, and other associated issues with DACCS.

[0009] In the next step of the process, referred to as carbon capture and sequestration (CCS), calcium carbonate is heated to produce CO2and calcium oxide. Tire produced CO2is isolated and injected underground and the calcium oxide is available to capture atmospheric CO2. Unfortunately, CCS requires capital equipment, extensive mining, transport, and material handling, proper geology, and large amounts of clean power that could otherwise be used in local communities.

[0010] Tirus, there is still a need for efficient and cost-effective methods to capture CO2from the atmosphere.

[0011] Citation of any reference in any Section of this disclosure is not to be constmed as an admission that such reference is prior art to the present application.

[0012] 2. SUMMARY OF THE DISCLOSURE

[0013] Hie present invention provides an apparatus that moves air across or through the inside of tire apparatus. In combination with CO2reactive agents, the apparatus can be used to move air across or through the CO2reactive agents to capture CO2directly from the atmosphere. Advantageously, the apparatus of the disclosure uses one or more of buoyancy effects, wind-driven ventilation, static pressure effects and ambient wind movement, without requiring an external energy source, such as electrical power, fossil fuel-derived power or the like. Thus, the apparatus of the disclosure requires less total energy expenditure relative to prior art designs

[0014] The apparatus comprises a base, a plurality of walls and atop defining an enclosure. The enclosure may be hollow. One or more of the plurality of walls have light / heat absorbing properties. The apparatus has one or more openings on the top and on one or more of the plurality of walls. When exposed to heat (e g., sun), the light / heat absorbing portion of the apparatus heats up, which, in turn, heats the air within the enclosure. This creates a pressure differential within the apparatus. Warm air, having a lower density, flows out the top of the apparatus, while cooler air flows into the bottom of the apparatus. This draft or ventilation moves air across or through tire inside of the apparatus and, if present, the CO2 reactive agent, which binds CO2.

[0015] 3. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE FIGURES

[0016] FIG. 1 shows a schematic diagram of an apparatus according to a first embodiment of the disclosure.

[0017] FIG. 2 shows a schematic diagram of an apparatus according to a second embodiment of the disclosure.

[0018] FIG. 3 shows a schematic diagram of an apparatus according to a third embodiment of the disclosure

[0019] FIG. 4 shows a schematic diagram of an apparatus according to a fourth embodiment of the disclosure

[0020] It is to be understood that the drawings arc for purposes of illustrating tire concepts of the disclosure and may not be to scale.

[0021] 4. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0022] The disclosure includes the following:

[0023] (1.) An apparatus for moving air, the apparatus comprising: a top, the top having one or more openings; a base; a plurality of walls connected to and extending away from the base, one or more of the plurality of walls having a first portion and a second portion, the first portion having light or heat absorbing properties and the second portion having one or more wall openings; wherein the base, the plurality of walls, and the top define an enclosure within the apparatus. (2.) The apparatus of the above (1.), wherein the height of the first portion is larger than the height of the second portion.

[0024] (3.) Tire apparatus of the above (1.) or (2.), wherein the one or more wall openings is on a first wall.

[0025] (4.) The apparatus of the above (1.) or (2.), wherein the one or more wall openings is on a first wall and a second wall, the second wall being adjacent to tire first wall.

[0026] (5.) The apparatus of any of the above (1 .) to (4.), wherein the second portion has reflective properties.

[0027] (6.) The apparatus of any of tire above (1.) to (5.), further comprising a wind-catching device.

[0028] (7.) The apparatus of any of the above (1.) to (6.), further comprising an apparatus for direct air capture.

[0029] (8.) An apparatus for moving air, the apparatus comprising: a first structure, the first structure comprising: a first top, the first top having one or more openings; a first base; a plurality of first walls connected to and extending away from the first base, wherein one or more of the plurality of first walls of the first structure have light or heat absorbing properties; a second structure, the second structure comprising: a second top; a second base; a plurality of second walls connected to and extending away from the second base, wherein one or more of the plurality of second walls of the second structure have light or heat absorbing properties; wherein: the first structure is disposed above the second structure; and the first and second structures define an enclosure within the apparatus.

[0030] (9.) The apparatus of the above (8 ), wherein one or more of the plurality of first walls of the first structure or one or more of the plurality of second walls of the second structure have reflective properties.

[0031] (10.) The apparatus of the above (8.) or (9.). further comprising one or more pipes operably connected to the second structure.

[0032] (11.) Tire apparatus of any of tire above (8.) to (10.), wherein the first structure comprises one or more windows.

[0033] (12.) The apparatus of the above (8.) to (11 .), further comprising a wind-catching device.

[0034] (13.) The apparatus of the above (8.) to (12 ). further comprising an apparatus for direct air capture.

[0035] (14.) Tire apparatus of the above (8 ), further comprising a third structure disposed in between the first structure and the second structure, the third structure comprising a third top; a third base; and a plurality of third walls connected to and extending away from the third base, wherein one or more of the plurality of third walls of the second structure have light or heat absorbing properties.

[0036] (15.) The apparatus of the above (14.), wherein the third structure comprises one or more windows.

[0037] (16.) The apparatus of the above (8 ), further comprising a third structure, the third structure comprising: a third top, the third top having one or more openings; a third base; and a plurality of third walls connected to and extending away from the third base, wherein one or more of the plurality of third walls of the third structure have light or heat absorbing properties; and a fourth structure, the fourth structure comprising: a fourth top; a fourth base; and a plurality of fourth walls connected to and extending away from the fourth base, wherein one or more of tire plurality of fourth walls of the fourth structure have light or heat absorbing properties; wherein: the third structure is disposed above the fourth structure; the third and fourth structures define an enclosure within the apparatus; and the third structure and the fourth structure being adjacent to the first structure and the second structure.

[0038] (17.) The apparatus of the above (16.), wherein one or more of the plurality of third walls of the third structure or one or more of the plurality of fourth walls of the fourth structure have reflective properties.

[0039] (18.) The apparatus of the above (16.) or (17.), further comprising a wind-catching device.

[0040] (19.) The apparatus of any of the above (16.) to (18.), further comprising an apparatus for direct air capture.

[0041] (20.) An apparatus for capturing carbon dioxide, the apparatus comprising: the apparatus of any of the above (1.) to (7.); and a source of a CO2 reactive agent operatively connected to the apparatus.

[0042] (21.) An apparatus for capturing carbon dioxide, the apparatus comprising: the apparatus of any of the above (8.) to (13.); and a CO2 reactive agent.

[0043] (22.) An apparatus for capturing carbon dioxide, the apparatus comprising: the apparatus of the above (14.) to (15.); and a CO2 reactive agent.

[0044] (23.) An apparatus for capturing carbon dioxide, the apparatus comprising: the apparatus of any of the above (16.) to (19.); and a CO2 reactive agent.

[0045] (24.) Tire apparatus of any one of the above (20.) to (23.), further comprising a device for increasing thermal transfer.

[0046] (25.) The apparatus of any one of the above (20.) to (24.), further comprising a structural support.

[0047] (26.) The apparatus of any one of the above (20.) to (25.), further comprising a surface area enhancement. .

[0048] (27.) Tire apparatus of any one of the above (20.) to (26.), further comprising insulation within the enclosure.

[0049] (28.) The apparatus of any one of the above (20.) to (27.), further comprising a sensor to measure airflow, moisture or temperature.

[0050] (29.) The apparatus of any one of the above (20.) to (28.), further comprising an external heat source.

[0051] (30.) Tire apparatus of the above (29.), wherein the external heat source is geothermal or heat generated from an industrial or biological process.

[0052] (31.) A method for capturing carbon dioxide, the method comprising: intaking air into the apparatus of any one of the above (20.) to (30.); and capturing carbon dioxide from the air via a chemical reaction with the carbon dioxide reactive agent.

[0053] (32.) A method of capturing carbon dioxide, the method comprising: exposing the apparatus of any one of the above (20.) to (30.) to heat; and capturing carbon dioxide from the air via a chemical reaction with the carbon dioxide reactive agent.

[0054] (33.) A method for moving air, the method comprising: exposing the apparatus of any one of claims 1 to 19 heat.

[0055] In order that the invention herein described may be fully understood, the following detailed description is set forth.

[0056] 3.1 Definitions

[0057] Unless defined otherw ise, all technical and scientific terms used herein have the same meaning as those commonly understood by one of ordinary skill in the art to which this invention belongs. Although methods and materials similar or equivalent to those described herein can be used in the practice or testing of the present invention, suitable methods and materials are described below. Tire materials, methods and examples are illustrative only, and are not intended to be limiting. All publications, patents and other documents mentioned herein are incorporated by reference in their entirety.

[0058] Throughout this specification, the word “comprise” or variations such as “comprises” or “comprising” will be understood to imply the inclusion of a stated integer or groups of integers but not the exclusion of any other integer or group of integers. Each instance herein, any of the terms “comprising,” “consisting essentially of,” and consisting of’ can be replaced with either of the two other terms.

[0059] Tire term “a” or “an” may mean more than one of an item.

[0060] The terms “and” and “or” may refer to either the conjunctive or disjunctive and mean “and / or”.

[0061] Tire term “about” means within plus or minus 10% of a stated value. For example, “about 100” would refer to any number between 90 and 110. The term ‘'natural ventilation” refers to a method of introducing and removing air through an apparatus of the disclosure without using an electrically / fossil-fiiel powered system. Natural ventilation, as used herein, uses temperature and / or wind differences to move air through the apparatus and / or across or through tire CO2 reactive agent.

[0062] The term “low CO2 reactive agent” refers to an agent that is capable of reacting with CO2 at a low rate of reaction, e.g., over months to decades.

[0063] The term “CO2 reactive agent” refers to an agent that is capable of reacting with CO2 at a higher rate of reaction than a low CO2 reactive agent, e.g., over minutes, hours, days or weeks.

[0064] When a range of values is provided, it is to be understood that the range includes each intervening integer value between the upper and lower limit of that range. For example, if a range of 1 to 10 is stated, it is understood to expressly include subranges such as from 1 to 3, from 1 to 4, from 1 to 5. from 1 to 6, from 1 to 7, from 1 to 8, from 1 to 9, from 2 to 4, from 2 to 6, from 2 to 8, etc., as well as individual values within the range, such as 1.1, 2, 2.6, 3, 3.9, 4, 4.2, 5, 5.7, 6, 6.5, 7, 7.4, 8, 8.8, 9, 9.1 and 10.

[0065] The present disclosure provides many exemplary embodiments and although each embodiment represents a single combination of elements, the disclosed subject matter is considered to include all possible combinations of the disclosed elements. Thus, if one embodiment comprises elements A, B, and C, and a second embodiment comprises elements B and D, then the disclosed subject matter is also considered to include other remaining combinations of A, B, C, or D, even if not explicitly disclosed.

[0066] Where tire specification refers to at least one of something selected from the group consisting of A, B, C, .... and N, the text should be interpreted as requiring only one element from the group, not A plus N, or B plus N, etc.

[0067] 3.2 Apparatus

[0068] Tire present invention provides an apparatus that moves air across or through the inside of tire apparatus. When used in combination with CO2 reactive agents, the apparatus moves air across or through the CO2 reactive agents to capture CO2 directly from the atmosphere. Advantageously, the apparatus of the disclosure uses one or more of buoyancy effects, wind-driven ventilation, static pressure effects and ambient wind movement, without requiring an external energy source, such as electrical power, fossil fuel-derived power or the like. FIG. 1 shows an apparatus for moving air according to an embodiment of the disclosure. As shown, apparatus 1 includes a top 2 and base 3 on which upon which the apparatus rests when the apparatus 1 is in its standard orientation as illustrated in FIG. 1. Apparatus 1 has four walls 4, 5, 6, and 7, extending away from the base. Tire base 3, four walls 4-7, and top 2 define an enclosure within apparatus 1. Hie enclosure may be hollow.

[0069] The front wall 4 includes a neutral line 8, dividing front wall 4 into a first portion 9 and a second portion 10.

[0070] Apparatus 1 has one or more openings 11 on the second portion 10 of one or more of the plurality of walls and opening 12 on the top 2. In some embodiments, one or more openings 11 is found on wall 4. In some embodiments, one or more openings 11 is found on wall 4 and wall 5.

[0071] In some embodiments, the first portion 9 has light or heat absorbing properties while second portion 10 has reflective properties. In other embodiments, both the first portion 9 and the second portion 10 have light or heat absorbing properties.

[0072] Light or heat absorbing properties can be created on first portion 9 by applying light-absorbing paint or coating (e.g., black paint, carbon black, or specialized solar absorptive coatings) to the wall surface. Reflective properties can be created on second portion 10 by applying reflective paint or coating (e.g., white paint, metallic paint or specialized reflective coatings) to the wall surface.

[0073] In various embodiments, different combinations of absorbing and reflective properties can be used to vary the way air is heated through the apparatus. For example, internal side walls 6. 7 can have reflective properties to reflect light onto the back wall 5 (black). Photon down conversion coatings, including UV to visible and visible to IR, can be applied to the internal walls to promote internal air heating. Photon down conversion coatings include quantum dots, and phosphors such Ce doped YAG.

[0074] Coatings can also be applied to the one or more openings to promote internal air heating. For example, the one or more openings 11 can be coated to promote ingress of infrared light but internally reflect IR, which can enhance internal air heating. Anti-reflection coatings can be used on the one or more openings 11 to promote light ingress.

[0075] In some embodiments, apparatus 1 can be operatively coupled to a source of a CCL reactive agent. When apparatus 1 is operatively coupled to a source of a CCL reactive agent, it can be used in methods to capture CO2, as discussed in the next section. For example, apparatus 1 can be operatively connected to an enclosure comprising a CC reactive agent (such as by ductwork). In alternate embodiments, apparatus 1 can be operatively coupled to a direct air capture (DAC) apparatus or system. The operative coupling of apparatus 1 to a DAC apparatus or system can replace fully or partially the fans and electricity typically used. Tire air ventilation provided by apparatus 1 can replenish the CXT in the air in DAC sy stems.

[0076] FIG. 2 shows an alternate embodiment of an apparatus for moving air. As shown, apparatus 10 includes structure 90 and structure 100, with structure 90 being disposed above structure 100. Structure 90 includes top 20, base 30 and has walls 40, 50, 60 and 70. Structure 100 includes top 22, base 32 and has walls 42, 52, 62 and 72. Structure 90, with top 20, base 30 and walls 40-70, and structure 100, with top 22, base 32 and walls 42 - 72 define an enclosure. Base 30 of structure 90 and top 22 of structure 100 are sufficiently sized to allow the two structures to be stacked together and to allow unrestricted airflow within the enclosure.

[0077] One or more of walls 40-70 or w alls 42-72 can optionally have light or heat absorbing properties. For example, light-absorbing paint or coating (e.g., black paint, carbon black, or specialized solar absorptive coatings) can be applied to the wall surface, on the inside or outside of the enclosure. One or more of walls 40-70 or walls 42-72 can optionally have reflective properties by applying reflective paint or coating (e.g., w hite paint, metallic paint or specialized reflective coatings) to the wall surface. In some embodiments, one or more of walls 40-70 or w alls 42-72 have light or heat absorbing properties and one or more of w alls 40-70 or walls 42-72 have reflective properties. In other embodiments, one or more of walls 40-70 or w alls 42-72 have light or heat absorbing properties. In some aspects, two or more walls 40-70 or walls 42-72 have light or heat absorbing properties, three or more walls 40-70 or walls 42-72 have light or heat absorbing properties, four or more walls 40-70 or walls 42-72 have light or heat absorbing properties, five or more walls 40-70 or walls 42-72 have light or heat absorbing properties, six or more walls 40-70 or w alls 42-72 have light or heat absorbing properties, seven or more walls 40-70 or walls 42-72 have light or heat absorbing properties or all eight w alls 40-70 or walls 42-72 have light or heat absorbing properties.

[0078] In embodiments in w hich apparatus 10 is to be used in methods for capturing CO2, operably connected to structure 100 is one or more of end-capped pipes 120. Pipe 120 contains an end cap at the end distal to structure 100 and a plurality of holes 130. The plurality of holes allow movement of air from the outside of apparatus 10 to the inside. Pipe 120 can be made from steel, aluminum, polyvinyl chloride (PVC), polypropylene (PP), and high-density polyethylene (HDPE). In some embodiments, apparatus 10 can have one or more windows and in others, apparatus 10 does not have any windows. Referring back to FIG. 2, structure 90 includes window 110 on wall 40. While FIG. 2 shows structure 90 with a single window 110, it is understood that structure 90 can have one or more windows. Window 110 can be made from glass, plexiglass, polycarbonate, tempered glass, laminated glass, fiberglass, vinyl, ceramic glass, ethylene tetrafluoroethylene (ETFE), polypropylene (PP) or polymethyl methacrylate (PMMA).

[0079] In some embodiments, structure 90 contains one or more wind-catching devices 140 on top 20. As the wind spins the catcher, internal air is directed up and out of the enclosure, creating airflow and moving the air from the bottom of the enclosure to the top and out of the enclosure. Examples of windcatching devices include wind towers, wind scoops, and wind turbines.

[0080] While FIG. 2 shows an embodiment in which the apparatus 10 includes structure 90 and structure 100 stacked, in alternate embodiments, tire apparatus includes a stack of more than two structures. In the embodiment shown in FIG. 3. apparatus 200 includes structure 90, structure 100, and structure 150. Structure 90 includes top 20, base 30 and walls 40, 50, 60 and 70. Structure 100 includes top 22, base 32 and walls 42, 52, 62 and 72. Structure 150 includes top 24, base 34, and walls 44, 54, 64 and 74.

[0081] Structure 90, with top 20. base 30 and walls 40-70, structure 100. with top 22, base 32 and walls 42 - 72. and structure 150, with top 24, base 34 and walls 44 - 74 define an enclosure. Base 30 of structure 90, top 22 of structure 100, and base 34 and top 24 of structure 150 are sufficiently sized to allow the three structures to be stacked together and to allow unrestricted airflow within the enclosure.

[0082] One or more of walls 40-70 of structure 90, walls 42-72 of structure 100 and walls 44-74 of structure 150 can be modified to have light or heat absorbing properties or reflective properties, as described above.

[0083] . In some embodiments, one or more of walls 40-70, walls 42-72. or walls 44-74 have light or heat absorbing properties and one or more of walls 40-70, walls 42-72, or walls 44-74 have reflective properties. In other embodiments, one or more of walls 40-70, walls 42-72. or walls 44-74 have light or heat absorbing properties. In some aspects, two or more walls 40-70, walls 42-72, or walls 44-74 have light or heat absorbing properties, three or more walls 40-70, walls 42-72, or walls 44-74 have light or heat absorbing properties, four or more walls 40-70, walls 42-72, or walls 44-74 have light or heat absorbing properties, five or more walls 40-70, walls 42-72, or walls 44-74 have light or heat absorbing properties, six or more walls 40-70, walls 42-72, or walls 44-74 have light or heat absorbing properties, seven or more walls 40-70, walls 42-72, or walls 44-74 have light or heat absorbing properties, eight or more walls 40-70, walls 42-72, or walls 44-74 have light or heat absorbing properties; nine or more walls 40-70, walls 42-72, or walls 44-74 have light or heat absorbing properties; ten or more walls 40-70, walls 42-72, or walls 44-74 have light or heat absorbing properties; eleven or more walls 40-70, walls 42-72, or walls 44-74 have light or heat absorbing properties; or all twelve walls 40-70, walls 42-72, or walls 44-74 have light or heat absorbing properties.

[0084] In embodiments in which apparatus 200 is to be used in methods for capturing CO2, operably connected to structure 100 is one or more of pipes 120. Pipe 120 contains an end cap at tire end distal to structure 100 and a plurality of holes 130. Tire plurality of holes allow movement of air from the outside of apparatus 200 to the inside.

[0085] In some embodiments, apparatus 200 can have one or more windows and in others, apparatus 200 does not have any windows. Referring back to FIG. 3, structure 90 includes window 110 on wall 40 and structure 150 includes window 114. While FIG. 3 shows structures 90 and 150 with a single window, it is understood that each can have one or more windows. Windows 110, 114 can be made from the same materials as those described above.

[0086] In some embodiments, structure 90 contains one or more wind-catching devices 140 on top 20. Examples of wind-catching devices are as described above.

[0087] FIG. 3 shows an apparatus in which three structures are stacked one on top of tire other. In alternate embodiments, a stack of two or more structures can be arranged side-by-side with a stack of two or more structures. The embodiment shown in FIG. 4 shows apparatus 300 having a stack of structures 90 and 100 side-by-side with a stack of structures 160 and 170. As shown, in embodiments in which apparatus 300 is to be used in methods for capturing CO2. structures 100 and 170 can be operatively connected to one or more pipes 120 having a plurality of holes 130. In alternate embodiments, one of structure 100 or structure 170 is operatively connected to one or more pipes.

[0088] In some embodiments, apparatus 300 can have one or more windows and in others, apparatus 300 does not have any windows. Referring back to FIG. 4, structures 90 and 160 have window 110. In some embodiments, one of structure 90 or structure 160 has a window. In some embodiments, one of or both of structures 90 and 160 have more than one window.

[0089] In some embodiments, structures 90 and 110 contain one or more wind-catching devices 140 on top 20. In some embodiments, one of structure 90 or structure 160 contains one or more wind-catching devices. While FIG. 4 shows a stack of two structures arranged side by side with a stack of two structures, it is to be understood that each stack can comprise a plurality of structures. For example, in some embodiments, the first stack comprises two, three, four, five or more structures and the second stack comprises two, three, four, five or more structures. In some embodiments, the number of structures in the first stack is the same as the number of structures in the second stack. In other embodiments, the number of structures in the first stack is less than or greater than the number of structures in the second stack.

[0090] Referring to FIGS. 2, 3, and 4, the neutral plane is defined by tire ratio of the area of the openings on the lower and the upper parts of the apparatus (i.e., R = —E££L) In other words, the size (area) of the ^Lower openings on the lower part of the apparatuses is the same as or substantially the same as the size of the openings on the upper parts of the apparatuses. For example, referring to FIG. 2, the size of tire openings 130 in pipe 120 of structure 100 is the same as or substantially the same as wind-catching devices 140 on top 20 of structure 90. If the size of openings are not the same or substantially the same, parasitic backflow may result. Preferably, the neutral plane is a sufficient distance from the openings on the lower and upper parts of the apparatus. The neutral plane that intersects with any of the openings would have an adverse impact on airflow.

[0091] Tire size of the openings are designed to maximize airflow through the apparatus and can be calculated, as shown in Equation 1.

[0092] Equation 1 in which Q is airflow in ft3 / min per minute; g is the gravitational constant; h is the height between lower and upper openings; T is temperature in K; A T is the difference in temperature between the inside and the outside of the apparatus; A is the area of the upper or lower openings given that they are equal (the proper name is Characteristic Area).

[0093] The size (area) of the openings in the pipes on the lower structure, and the openings on the upper structure, is in the range from about 0.1 m2to about 4 m2, 0.1 m2to about 3 m2, about 0.2 m2to about 3 m2, about 0.3 m2to about 3 m2, about 0.4 m2to about 3 m2, about 0.5 m2, about 0.6 m2to about 3 m2, about 0.7 nr to about 3 m2, about 0.8 m2to about 3 nr, about 0.9 nr to about 3 nr, about 1 m2to about 3 m2, about 1.25 m2to about 3 nr. about 1.5 nr to about 3 nr, about 1.75 m2to about 3 m2, about 2 nr to about 3 m2, about 2.25 m2to about 3 m2, about 2.5 m2to about 3 m2, about 2.75 m2to about 3 m2, about 0. 1 m2to about 2.5 m2, about 0. 1 m2to about 2.25 m2, about 0. 1 m2to about 2 m2, about 0.1 m2to about l.75 m2, about 0. 1 m2to about 1.5 m2, about 0.1 m2to about 1.25 m2, about 0. 1 m2to about 1 m2, about 0.1 m2to about 0.75 m2, about 0. 1 m2to about 0.5 m2, about 0. 1 m2to about 0.25 m2, or about 0.1 m2to about 0.2 m2. In some embodiments, the area of the openings is about 0.1 m2, about 0.2 m2, about 0.3 m2, about 0.4 nr, about 0.5 nr, about 0.6 nr, about 0.7 nr, about 0.8 nr, about 0.9 nr, about 1 nr, about 1.1 m2, about 1.2 m2, about 1.3 m2, about 1.4 m2, about 1.5 m2, about 1.6 m2, about 1.7 m2, about 1.8 m2, about 1.9 m2, about 2 m2, about 2.1 m2, about 2.2 m2, about 2.3 m2, about 2.4 m2, about 2.5 m2, about 2.6 m2, about 2.7 m2, about 2.8 m2, about 2.9 m2, about 3 m2, about 3.1 m2, about 3.2 m2, about 3.3 m2, about 3.4 m2, about 3.5 m2, about 3.6 m2, about 3.7 m2, about 3.8 m2, about 39 m2, or about 4 m2.

[0094] The width of the apparatus is in the range from about 0.1 m to about 5 m, about 0.5 m to about 5 m, about 1 m to about 5 m, about 1.5 m to about 5 m, about 2 m to about 5 m, about 2.5 m to about 5 m, about 3 m to about 5 m, about 3.5 m to about 5 m, about 4 m to about 5 m, about 0.1 m to about 4.5 m, about 0. 1 m to about 4 m, about 0.1 m to about 3.5 m, about 0. 1 m to about 3 m, about 0.1 m to about 2.5 m. about 0.1 m to about 2 m, about 0. 1 m to about 1.5 m, or about 0. 1 m to about 1 m. In some embodiments, the width of tire apparatus is about 0.1 m. about 0.2 m, about 0.3 m, about 0.4 m, about 0.5 m. about 0.6 m, about 0.7 m, about 0.8 m. about 0.9 m, about 1 m. about 1.1 m, about 1.2 m, about 1.3 m. about 1 .4 m, about 1 .5 m, about 1 .6 m, about 1 .7 m, about 1 .8 m, about 1 .9 m, about 2 m, about 2.1 m, about 2.2 m, about 2.3 m, about 2.4 m, about 2.5 m, about 2.6 m, about 2.7 m, about 2.8 m, about 2.9 m, about 3 m, about 3.1 m, about 3.2 m, about 3.3 m, about 3.4 m, about 3.5 m, about 3.6 m, about 3.7 m, about 3.8 m. about 3.9 m, about 4 m, about 4.1 m, about 4.2 m, about 4.3 m. about 4.4 m, about 4.5 m, about 4.6 m. about 4.7 m, about 4.8 m, about 4.9 m, or about 5m.

[0095] Tire length of the apparatus is in the range from about 1 m to about 20 m, about 5 m to about 20 m, about 10 m to about 20 m, about 15 m to about 20 m, from about 1 m to about 15 m, about 1 m to about 10 m, or about 1 m to about 5 m. In some embodiments, the width of the apparatus is about 1 m, about 2 m, about 3, about 4 m, about 5m, about 6 m, about 7 m, about 8 m, about 9 m. about 10 m, about 11 m, about 12 m, about 14 m, about 15 m, about 16 m, about 17 m, about 18 m, about 19 m, or about 20 m.

[0096] The height of the apparatus is in the range from about 1 m to about 20 m, about 5 m to about 20 m. about 10 m to about 20 m, about 15 m to about 20 m, from about 1 m to about 15 m. about 1 m to about 10 m, or about 1 m to about 5 m. In some embodiments, the height of the apparatus is about 1 m, about 2 m, about 3, about 4 m, about 5m, about 6 m, about 7 m, about 8 m, about 9 m, about 10 m, about 11 m, about 12 m, about 14 m, about 15 m, about 16 m, about 17 m, about 18 m, about 19 m, or about 20 m.

[0097] While FIGS. 1-4 show the apparatuses of the disclosure fabricated as a rectangle, it should be understood that the apparatus can be fabricated in any shape. For example, the apparatus can be rectangular, tubular, pyramidal, cubic, or any shape that will improve heat transfer and ventilation.

[0098] The apparatuses of the disclosure can be made of any suitable material, including but not limited to. iron, steel, aluminum, copper, or any other construction material. The apparatus can be made from a combination of construction materials, including cement and concrete. In some embodiments, the apparatuses of the disclosure are prepared from recycled or previously used materials, e g ., shipping containers.

[0099] In all of the apparatuses disclosed herein, the joints and seams are sealed to prevent air and weather ingress. Sealants are well known in the art and any can be used, e.g., polyurethane sealant, butyl rubber sealant, EPDM rubber, bituminous sealant, foam sealant, acrylic sealant, and joint tapes and membranes.

[0100] The apparatuses of the disclosure may optionally include additional features to increase thermal transfer of air or to provide structural support to the apparatus (such as, ground anchors). Features that increase thermal transfer include surface area enhancement additions (such as internal and external heat fins and structured packing materials (metallic)), insulation (such as spray on polyurethane insulation or rock wool), and external heat sources.

[0101] In some embodiments, the apparatus of the disclosure includes an external heating source. External heating sources include geothermal heat, heat produced in an industrial process, a biological process or any other heat source. For heat produced in an industrial process, tire apparatus can be modified to contain piping that circulates heat (as water or a gas) from the industrial site from which it was produced to the apparatus and back to the industrial site.

[0102] Tire apparatus of the disclosure can include devices to track and measure airflow, moisture, and temperature inside and outside the device and along tire interior. Devices can be used in combination to track overall performance of CO2 capture and sequestration including eddy covariance methods, apparatuses, and techniques.

[0103] While FIGS. 2-4 show apparatuses for ventilating air, they can also used for capturing CO2from the atmosphere. Apparatuses for capturing CO2further comprise a CO2reactive agent. CO; reactive agents include any mineral that contains CaO, Ca(OH)2, NaOH, KOH, MgO, Mg(OH)2and any other mineral silicate, iron silicate, aluminum silicate, iron aluminum silicate, iron oxide, or any other metal oxide that can react with CO2in gas form or as a hydrate in the form of carbonic acid or solvated carbonate. Additional CO2reactive agents include resin-bound amine systems, aminopolymers, TR-PE-MCM-41. amine functionalized mesoporous materials, metal-organic frameworks, potassium carbonates, ion-exchange resins, and nano-based materials. Further CO2 reactive agents include waste materials, such as steel slag, carbide lime waste, ash from power generation, coal ash, municipal waste incinerator ash, petcoke ash, GOB ash, waste concrete, cement kiln dust, iron slags, basalts, lime fines, olivine, mine tailings, reactive rock overburden, and others. The used CO2reactive agents (i.e., once CO2is captured) can be reused or not.

[0104] 3.3 Methods

[0105] The present disclosure provides methods of using the apparatuses of the disclosure. In one embodiment, the present disclosure provides a method of moving or ventilating air. In another embodiment, the present disclosure provides a method of capturing CO2.

[0106] In tire method of moving or ventilating air, the method comprises exposing an apparatus of the disclosure to a heat source.

[0107] When an apparatus of the disclosure is exposed to a heat source (e.g., sunlight), the external temperature of the walls facing the heat source increases. This, in turn, increases the temperature of the air within the enclosure of the apparatus. The walls that are not facing to heat will stay cool. Having some walls heated and others staying cool creates a pressure differential within the apparatus. With the pressure differential, tire heated air will move out of an opening on top of the apparatus and cool air will move into the apparatus via an opening on one or more of the plurality of walls.

[0108] Referring to FIG. 1, when apparatus 1 is exposed to sunlight, the temperature of first portion 9 increases. This increases the temperature of the air within the enclosure. The temperature of the second portion 10 is not exposed to heat and stays cool. This creates a pressure differential within apparatus 1. The heated air will flow out opening 12 on top 2. Cool air will flow into apparatus 1 via opening 11 on the second portion 10 of one or more of the plurality of walls.

[0109] This airflow can be used to ventilate air in a DAC apparatus, replacing the fans and electricity that are typically used. For example, in a DAC method, trays of CO2absorbing zeolite are stacked in a building and exposed to the atmosphere. Over time, the CO2in the air of the building needs to be replenished and this is typically achieved through the use of fans and electricity. The apparatus of the disclosure can be used to replace the fans and electricity used in the DAC method by operatively connecting an apparatus of the disclosure to the DAC apparatus (i.e., the building that houses the trays of zeolite).

[0110] In a second embodiment the present disclosure provides a method of capturing CO2, the method comprising contacting an apparatus of the disclosure with a CO2 reactive agent.

[0111] CO2 reactive agents that can be used in the methods of the disclosure are as discussed in the preceding section.

[0112] Tire contacting step can include deploying the apparatus of the disclosure on a site with a suitable CO2 reactive agent already present. For example, the apparatus of the disclosure can be placed on a site that contains sites that contain cement kiln dust, lime kiln dust, mine tailings, power plants, steel plants, carbide lime ponds, ash and waste concrete.

[0113] More than one apparatus of the disclosure can be placed on tire CCh-containing site. In these embodiments, the apparatuses can be positioned in a grid layout, ai driven optimization layout, suntracking layout, or heat-tracking layout.

[0114] Tire placement of apparatus 1 in the CO2 reactive agent is such that the neutral line 8 is located at or above the surface of the CO2 reactive agent. With this placement, the first portion 9 with its light / heat absorbing properties is positioned above the CO2 reactive agent and the second portion 10 has reflective properties (e.g., silver) is positioned below the CO2 reactive agent.

[0115] In embodiments in which the apparatus contains pipes, such as those shown in FIGS. 2-4, the CO2 reactive agent is placed on top of the pipes. The amount of CO2 reactive reagent that can be placed on top of the pipe is limited so as to minimize a negative change in pressure within the apparatus. Accordingly, the depth of CO2 reactive agent on the pipes is in the range of 0.1 m to about 5 m, about 0. 1 to about 4.5 m, about 0.1 m to about 4 m, about 0.1 m to about 3.5 m, about 0.1 m to about 3 m, about 0.1 m to about 2.5 m, about 0.1 m to about 2 m, about 0. 1 m to about 1 m, about 0.5 m to about 5 m, about 1 m to about 5 m, about 1.5 m to about 5 m, about 2 m to about 5 m, about 2.5 m to about 5 m, about 3 m to about 5 m. about 3.5 m to about 5 m, about 4 m to about 5 m.

[0116] In the next step, the apparatus of the disclosure is exposed to a heat source. When exposed to heat (e.g., sun), the light / heat absorbing portion of the apparatus heats, which, in turn, heats the air inside of tire apparatus. Tire reflective portion of the apparatus, if present, is not exposed to heat (e.g., sun) and will stay cool. Exposing the apparatus to heat, and wind as well, creates a temperature / pressure differential within the apparatus. Warm air, having a lower density, will flow out the top of the apparatus, while cooler air flows into the bottom of the apparatus. This draft or ventilation moves air across the CO2 reactive agent binding CO2.

[0117] It will be apparent to those in the art that specific embodiments of the disclosed subject matter may be directed to one or more of the above- and below-indicated embodiments in any combination.

[0118] While the invention has been disclosed in some detail by way of illustration for purposes of clarity of understanding, it is apparent to those in the art that various changes may be made and equivalents may be substituted without departing from the true spirit and scope of the invention. Therefore, the description should not be construed as limiting the scope of the invention.

Claims

CLAIMSWhat is claimed is:

1. An apparatus for capturing carbon dioxide, the apparatus comprising: a first structure, the first structure comprising: a first top, the first top having one or more openings; a first base; and a plurality of first walls connected to and extending away from the first base, wherein one or more of the plurality of first walls of the first structure have light or heat absorbing properties; a second structure, the second structure comprising: a second top; a second base; and a plurality of second walls connected to and extending away from the second base, wherein one or more of the plurality of second walls of the second structure have light or heat absorbing properties; wherein the first structure is disposed above the second structure; and the first and second structures define an enclosure within the apparatus one or more pipes operably connected to the second structure; and a CO2 reactive agent.

2. The apparatus of claim 1, wherein one or more of the plurality of first walls of the first structure or one or more of the plurality of second walls of the second structure have reflective properties.

3. The apparatus of claim 1, wherein the first structure comprises one or more windows.

4. The apparatus of claim 1, further comprising a wind-catching device.

5. The apparatus of claim 1, further comprising a third structure disposed in between the first structure and the second structure, the third structure comprising a third top; a third base; and a plurality of third walls connected to and extending away from the third base, wherein one or more of the plurality of third walls of the second structure have light or heat absorbing properties.

6. The apparatus of claim 5, wherein the third structure comprises one or more windows.

7. The apparatus of claim 1, further comprising a third structure, the third structure comprising: a third top, the third top having one or more openings: a third base; and a plurality of third walls connected to and extending away from the third base, wherein one or more of the plurality of third walls of the third structure have light or heat absorbing properties; a fourth structure, the fourth structure comprising: a fourth top; a fourth base; and a plurality of fourth walls connected to and extending away from the fourth base, wherein one or more of the plurality of fourth walls of the fourth structure have light or heat absorbing properties and: wherein: the third structure is disposed above the fourth structure: the third and fourth structures define an enclosure within tire apparatus; andthe third structure and the fourth structure being adjacent to the first structure and the second structure.

8. The apparatus of claim 7, wherein one or more of the plurality of third walls of tire third structure or one or more of the plurality of fourth walls of the fourth structure have reflective properties.

9. The apparatus of claim 5, further comprising a wind-catching device.

10. Tire apparatus of claim 1, further comprising a device for increasing thermal transfer.

11. The apparatus of claim 1, further comprising a structural support.

12. The apparatus of claim 1, further comprising a surface area enhancement.

13. Tire apparatus of claim 1, further comprising insulation within the enclosure.

14. The apparatus of claim 1, further comprising a sensor to measure airflow, moisture or temperature.

15. Hie apparatus of claim 1. further comprising an external heat source.

16. A method of capturing carbon dioxide, the method comprising: exposing the apparatus of claim 1 to heat: and capturing carbon dioxide from the air via a chemical reaction with the carbon dioxide reactive agent.

17. A method of capturing carbon dioxide, the method comprising: exposing the apparatus of claim 5 to heat; and capturing carbon dioxide from the air via a chemical reaction with the carbon dioxide reactive agent.

18. A method of capturing carbon dioxide, the method comprising: exposing the apparatus of claim 7 to heat; andcapturing carbon dioxide from the air via a chemical reaction with the carbon dioxide reactive agent.

19. A method for moving air, the method comprising: exposing the apparatus of claim 1 to heat.

20. A method for moving air. the method comprising: exposing the apparatus of claim 5 or claim 7 to heat.

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