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Breaking the energy barrier: The novel chemistry that could unlock Direct Air Capture at scale

Current methods of capturing CO2 require large amounts of energy to heat and cool chemical solutions. This team developed a new, more efficient process that uses electricity to change a liquid's acidity. This liquid captures CO₂ when it is alkaline and releases it when it becomes acidic. The new technique is designed to use about ten times less energy than today's standard methods.

 

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Spinout: Catheros

Catheros launched as a venture-backed startup in 2025.

Unlocking direct air capture.

Catheros is building a pilot facility to validate energy balance and economics. The project has the potential to remove CO2 continuously at the scale of billions of tons while reducing long-term material costs and increasing energy efficiency.

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