A Scalable Robust Microporous Al‐MOF for Post‐Combustion Carbon Capture

Abstract

Abstract Herein, a robust microporous aluminum tetracarboxylate framework, MIL‐120(Al)‐AP, (MIL, AP: Institute Lavoisier and Ambient Pressure synthesis, respectively) is reported, which exhibits high CO2 uptake (1.9 mmol g−1 at 0.1 bar, 298 K). In situ Synchrotron X‐ray diffraction measurements together with Monte Carlo simulations reveal that this structure offers a favorable CO2 capture configuration with the pores being decorated with a high density of µ2‐OH groups and accessible aromatic rings. Meanwhile, based on calculations and experimental evidence, moderate host‐guest interactions Qst (CO2) value of MIL‐120(Al)‐AP (−40 kJ mol−1) is deduced, suggesting a relatively low energy penalty for full regeneration. Moreover, an environmentally friendly ambient pressure green route, relying on inexpensive raw materials, is developed to prepare MIL‐120(Al)‐AP at the kilogram scale with a high yield while the Metal‐ Organic Framework (MOF) is further shaped with inorganic binders as millimeter‐sized mechanically stable beads. First evidences of its efficient CO2/N2 separation ability are validated by breakthrough experiments while operando IR experiments indicate a kinetically favorable CO2 adsorption over water. Finally, a techno‐economic analysis gives an estimated production cost of ≈ 13 $ kg−1, significantly lower than for other benchmark MOFs. These advancements make MIL‐120(Al)‐AP an excellent candidate as an adsorbent for industrial‐scale CO2 capture processes.

Keywords

• CCS
• CO2
• MOFs
• scale‐up
• shaping
• techno‐economic analysis