Current DAC systems typically use amine-functionalised porous materials because of their high affinity for CO₂ at atmospheric concentrations. However, commercial deployment is limited not only by regeneration energy requirements but also by gradual adsorbent degradation during repeated regeneration cycles. Elevated temperatures, oxygen exposure, moisture fluctuations, and localised overheating can lead to irreversible amine decomposition, reducing adsorption capacity and increasing operating costs.
Most studies focus on reducing regeneration energy through process optimisation. Comparatively little attention has been given to the interaction between contactor design, heat transfer characteristics, temperature distribution, regeneration strategy, and long-term adsorbent stability.
In practical DAC systems, temperature gradients within the bed may expose portions of the adsorbent to temperatures significantly above the desired regeneration temperature, accelerating amine degradation. There is therefore a critical need to develop regeneration strategies and contactor designs that minimise degradation while maintaining efficient CO₂ desorption.
Aim
To develop regeneration strategies, contactor and material designs that minimise degradation of amine-based DAC adsorbents while maintaining effective CO₂ regeneration and low energy consumption.
Objectives
Objective 1: Investigate the degradation behaviour of amine-functionalised DAC adsorbents under realistic regeneration conditions. This will examine the effects of regeneration temperature, oxygen exposure, humidity, regeneration duration, cyclic operation, on adsorbent capacity loss and stability.
Objective 2: Develop and validate a heat and mass transfer model for DAC contactors to identify operating conditions that minimise temperature gradients and local overheating during regeneration.
Objective 3: Design and optimise regeneration strategies and contactor configurations that minimise amine degradation while maintaining high CO₂ working capacity and low energy consumption.
Significance
Direct Air Capture (DAC) is increasingly recognised as a critical technology for achieving net-zero emissions and addressing residual greenhouse gas emissions. Amine-functionalised solid adsorbents are among the most promising materials for DAC due to their high affinity for CO₂ at atmospheric concentrations. However, their widespread deployment is hindered by gradual degradation during regeneration, which leads to reduced adsorption capacity, increased sorbent replacement costs, and lower process reliability.
This project addresses a key knowledge gap by investigating the relationship between regeneration conditions, heat transfer within DAC contactors, and long-term adsorbent stability. By combining experimental studies with process modelling, the research will identify regeneration strategies and contactor designs that minimise thermal and oxidative degradation while maintaining efficient CO₂ capture performance.
The outcomes will contribute to the development of longer-lasting and more cost-effective DAC systems by:
- improving understanding of amine degradation mechanisms under realistic operating conditions;
- reducing sorbent replacement frequency and operating costs;
- providing design guidelines for next-generation DAC contactors and regeneration systems;
- supporting the scale-up and commercial deployment of solid-sorbent DAC technologies.
The project aligns strongly with Australia’s net-zero ambitions and Curtin University’s research strengths in adsorption, gas separation, and carbon capture technologies. It also complements ongoing efforts by industry and government to develop scalable carbon dioxide removal solutions capable of supporting deep decarbonisation pathways.
Ideal Candidate
We are seeking a highly motivated PhD candidate with a background in Chemical Engineering, Materials Science, Environmental Engineering, or a related discipline. The successful applicant should have strong analytical and problem-solving skills, with an interest in carbon capture, adsorption processes, and sustainable energy technologies. Experience in process modelling, transport phenomena, adsorption, reaction engineering, or experimental research is desirable. Familiarity with software such as COMSOL, Aspen, MATLAB, Python, or similar modelling tools would be advantageous but is not essential. Candidates must be eligible for enrolment in a PhD program at Curtin University and demonstrate strong written and verbal communication skills.
This project is open to International and Domestic applicants.
Internship
The successful candidate will undertake an internship with an industry or research partner working in the fields of carbon capture, adsorption technologies, process engineering, or sustainable energy systems.
Scholarship
If you are identified as the preferred candidate for this project, you may be considered for an RTP scholarship.
Enquires and How to Apply
For enquires about this opportunity contact Dr Arash Arami-Niya at Arash.Araminiya@curtin.edu.au
To formally apply submit an Expression of Interest to Dr Arash Arami-Niya during the Central Scholarship round (July 1st – July 31st 2026)