(385ax) Improving Thermal Stability of Aprotic-Heterocyclic Anion (AHA) Ionic Liquids (ILs) for High-Temperature Integrated Carbon Capture and Conversion (IC3) Processes

The U.S. consumed over 93.6 quadrillion BTUs of energy in 2023, with 87% from fossil fuels, contributing to record-high CO₂ emissions of 37 gigatons. Carbon capture, utilization, and storage (CCUS) technologies help mitigate emissions, but traditional amine-based solvents suffer from corrosion, toxicity, and high energy costs. To address these issues, the Brennecke group at the University of Texas developed aprotic-heterocyclic anion (AHA) ionic liquids (ILs), which offer non-corrosiveness, negligible vapor pressure, high thermal stability, and reduced energy demands for regeneration.
Integrated carbon capture and conversion (IC³) technologies, which convert captured CO₂ within the solvent, show promise in eliminating energy-intensive solvent regeneration. AHA ILs, particularly [P₂₂₂₈][2CNPyr], have demonstrated catalytic CO₂ conversion to methanol at elevated temperatures, enhancing energy efficiency. However, improving their long-term thermal stability is crucial for high-temperature applications.
Recent studies show that modifying AHA IL anion structures significantly enhances stability without sacrificing CO₂ absorption. A newly developed AHA IL exhibited less than 2% weight loss after 16 hours of thermal stress, compared to over 20% for [P₂₂₂₈][2CNPyr]. This advancement improves both stability and CO₂ absorption capacity, making it a strong IC³ candidate. Ongoing research focuses on refining AHA ILs by investigating thermal decomposition mechanisms, aiming for a cost-effective and sustainable CO₂ capture and conversion solution.

Research Interests:

Bill Gates’ “Bathtub Metaphor” aptly illustrates the urgency of addressing carbon emissions: imagine a bathtub with no drain and a constant flow of water—it will inevitably overflow unless the flow is stopped. Similarly, our atmosphere continues to fill with greenhouse gases, particularly carbon dioxide (CO₂), pushing us closer to and possibly beyond the 1.5°C limit set by the Paris Agreement. Carbon Capture, Utilization, and Sequestration (CCUS), along with negative emission technologies like Direct Air Capture (DAC), are essential to mitigate emissions and reduce atmospheric CO₂ concentrations.
Despite their promise, current CCUS technologies remain energy-intensive and cost-prohibitive, underscoring the need for innovative solutions. My research interests lie in the development of highly efficient, cost-effective CCUS technologies that can significantly reduce CO₂ emissions and potentially achieve net-negative emissions. With a strong background in CO₂ absorbent solvents, I aim to expand my expertise into complementary technologies such as adsorbents and membranes.
Moreover, I believe that reducing CO₂ emissions requires a holistic approach, including the transition to carbon-free fuels like hydrogen and ammonia, as well as reinventing industrial processes for carbon-intensive materials such as steel and cement. I am particularly motivated to conduct applied research that bridges academia and industry, turning scientific advancements into scalable solutions that contribute meaningfully to global climate goals.