Demonstration of Direct Air Capture (DAC) of CO2 with Building Air Handling Equipment

Oak Ridge National Laboratory (ORNL) will evaluate the feasibility of integrating carbon capture technologies with existing heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) systems in buildings to remove carbon dioxide (CO2) directly from ventilated air streams. The use of existing air handling infrastructure can enable the deployment of distributed direct air capture (DAC) systems that are modular and scalable. The project will assess specific types of buildings and associated equipment in order to identify the major opportunities and challenges associated with DAC incorporation into representative building HVAC systems. The scope to be executed by ORNL includes (1) performing a preliminary assessment of utilizing existing building equipment infrastructure for DAC; (2) characterizing adsorbent materials and modules; (3) assessing various approaches for regeneration; (4) evaluating system integration options and assessing the impact on equipment performance due to additional power requirements; (5) performing a techno-economic assessment of DAC in buildings; and (6) conducting a feasibility analysis based on building processes and occupant comfort. To execute this multi-faceted project, an integrated project team from ORNL's Energy and Transportation Science Division is tasked with applying capabilities and technologies associated with HVAC equipment, advanced materials, and system integration.