The team behind the new technology has been working for some time to improve hydroxide exchange membrane fuel cells, an economical and environmentally friendly alternative to traditional acid-based fuel cells used today.
A few years back, the researchers realized this disadvantage might actually be a solution – for carbon dioxide removal.
The results showed that an electrochemical cell measuring 2 inches by 2 inches could continuously remove about 99% of the carbon dioxide found in the air flowing at a rate of approximately two liters per minute.
For example, the UD-patented technology could enable lighter, more efficient carbon dioxide removal devices in spacecraft or submarines, where ongoing filtration is critical.