Direct air capture: recent progress in materials, equipment, and process engineering

[Geoengineering News]

https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/abs/pii/S2211339825001091

Authors: Yongxin Hu, Xingyang Li, Teng Zhou

14 November 2025

https://doi.org/10.1016/j.coche.2025.101197

Abstract 

The direct air capture (DAC) technology possesses transformative potential for achieving negative emissions. However, challenges such as massive energy consumption, low capture efficiency, and supply chain concerns have impeded their large-scale implementation. Process Systems Engineering (PSE) is expected to address these challenges and bridge existing gaps. This paper first conducts a bibliometric analysis of 1171 DAC-related research papers published between 2015 and 2025. We then classify recent representative DAC studies through the lens of PSE. Afterwards, we discuss the role of PSE methods and tools in material design, equipment retrofitting, process optimization, and system integration across molecular, unit, and process scales. Finally, we point out future research opportunities and challenges in cross-scale modeling and optimization, multisystem integration, and flexible design for varying DAC conditions.

Source: ScienceDirect