Researchers from Purdue University and Sandia National Laboratories highlight a novel, cost-effective method using clay to absorb atmospheric CO₂, potentially transforming large-scale climate change mitigation efforts with a natural, abundant material.
Researchers have identified clay, one of Earth’s most abundant nanomaterials, as a potential game-changer in the fight against climate change. A team led by Professor Cliff Johnston at Purdue University, in collaboration with specialists from Sandia National Laboratories, has published a study revealing how clay can effectively capture carbon dioxide (CO₂) directly from the atmosphere. This innovative approach could significantly enhance efforts to mitigate the impacts of climate change.
The findings, detailed in The Journal of Physical Chemistry C, highlight a unique method of utilising clay’s properties to absorb CO₂ more efficiently than traditional methods. Johnston’s team, which includes undergraduate student Riley Welsh and several researchers from Sandia, discovered that water confined within clay nanopores aids in the absorption process. This suggests that clay not only serves as a carbon capture medium but may also enhance absorption capacity when paired with water.
This research is gaining traction as a feasible pathway toward more sustainable direct-air carbon capture technologies. Clay’s combination of abundance and low cost makes it an appealing option for large-scale application. In fact, Tuan Ho, a chemical engineer at Sandia, noted that their preliminary findings, which integrate computer models with experimental data, demonstrate that clay could play a significant role in reducing atmospheric CO₂ levels, thus helping to counteract climate change (speaking to Sandia National Laboratories).
Moreover, the Purdue-Sandia initiative aligns with a growing body of evidence supporting the efficacy of natural materials in carbon capture technologies. While extensive investments have traditionally centred around more complex methods, this research underscores a paradigm shift towards utilising readily available natural resources like clay. Such advancements could have far-reaching implications, enabling quicker and more cost-effective responses to rising CO₂ levels.
As the climate crisis escalates, innovative solutions such as the use of clay for carbon capture are being closely monitored by scientists and policymakers alike. The promising outcomes of this research not only illuminate clay’s potential but also call for further investigation into natural materials as viable components in the toolkit for addressing climate change. The study gained a 2024 R&D 100 Award and is the basis for ongoing patent applications.
