Innovative Molecular Sponges: Next-Generation Direct Air Capture Technology Enabled by Metal-Organic Frameworks

Abstract Direct air capture (DAC) is an engineered atmospheric carbon dioxide (CO2) removal technology aimed at mitigating climate change impacts, as emphasized by the United Nations Framework Convention for Climate Change (UNFCCC). With only a limited number of currently deployed units globally, DAC technology is still at its embryonic stage. To improve its acceleration, the DAC system needs to be tackled holistically – including but not limited to (1) sorbent selection and performance improvement, (2) scaling of manufacturing from laboratory to industrial segments, and (3) integration of the engineered contactor design. Metal-organic frameworks (MOFs), with their interesting properties, such as record-breaking specific surface areas, crystallinity, and chemical versatility, are identified as one of the most promising materials for solid DAC applications. Baker Hughes recently acquired Mosaic Materials to scale its next-generation DAC technology. In this work, Mosaic's breakthrough will be used as a case study, building on its proprietary MOF, process optimization, and engineering design, and the journey from lab-scale work to systems-level programs. Policy, sustainability, and knowledge-sharing will play critical roles as prime agents to accelerate DAC deployment enabled by advanced materials such as MOFs.