New material captures and releases trapped CO2
A new material developed at Australia's Monash University is capable of absorbing large amounts of carbon dioxide, and then releasing it when exposed to sunlight.
The metal organic framework, or MOF, was made using light sensitive azobenzene molecules.
The researchers claim it is able to change its structure when irradiated with sunlight, in a process called dynamic photo-switching.
When this happens, it releases the CO2 in a manner said to be 'like wringing out a sponge'.
The researchers say the released carbon dioxide could be used to produce energy, moved into long term storage, or even utilised in construction materials.
While the sponge is particularly adept at catching and releasing CO2, the researchers believe that other gases could also be targeted.
