Bifunctional Regenerative Electrochemical Air Transformation for Human Environments

The proposed novel technology of All-Solid-state Bipolar Membrane Electrochemical Cell (ASSBEC) simultaneously captures and separates CO2 from direct-air in one step. An innovative electrochemical cell structure analogue to a p-i-n junction solar cell operating in a forward-bias configuration is envisioned for this purpose. The ASSBEC comprises of anode half-cell membrane of a Proton Exchange Membrane Fuel cell (PEMFC) and cathode half-cell membrane of an Anion Exchange Membrane Fuel Cell (AEMFC). A porous carbon layer having mixed-ionic conductivity (achieved by mixing with ionomers having H+ and OH- conductivities) is sandwiched between these two half-cell membranes which act as a CO2-separation region. The ASSBEC technology will overcome the fundamental limitations associated with BREATHE technology (Phase II effort), which is based on the traditional salt-splitting electrochemical process. The AASBEC technology is environmentally benign – by avoiding the use of caustic-liquid scrubbers. In addition, a significant reduction in its weight, cost, energy consumption, and overall minimization of the system’s footprint is anticipated compared to the BREATHE technology (SBIR Phase II efforts). Two distinctive electrochemical cell designs having planar and tubular profiles are also provided for the application of CO2 capture-separation from direct-air at low-throughput and, from flue-gas at high-throughput, respectively. Furthermore, the AASBEC technology has enormous potential for CO2-scrubbing and separation application, specifically in closed-loop environmental control systems for the life support needs of astronauts and sailors aboard nuclear submarines. Moreover, Research and Development efforts in Phase IIE will involve the validation of proof-of-concept (POC) and technology development (targeted TRL level 2 to 4) associated with the successful implementation ASSBEC technology.

The ASSBEC technology has enormous potential for CO2-scrubbing and separation application, specifically in closed-loop environmental control systems for the life support needs of astronauts and sailors aboard nuclear submarines. When AASBEC technology is developed, a significant reduction in its weight, cost, energy consumption, and overall minimization of the system’s footprint is anticipated compared to the BREATHE technology (SBIR Phase II efforts) is anticipated.

The ASSBEC concept can be extended to other vessels requiring closed-loop life support such as nuclear-powered submarines and other long-duration, manned underwater vehicles. In addition, the ASSBEC technology will be evaluated for high-throughput direct air capture of CO2 on earth for purposes of climate mitigation.

This is early/mid-stage (TRL 4) — the most realistic path in is NASA SBIR/STTR, which funds small businesses and research institutions to develop technology aligned with NASA's needs (equity-free, phased funding). Check whether a current SBIR/STTR solicitation topic overlaps with this project's technology area, or contact the project directly (above) to ask.

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