Keeling Curve

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Project Summary / Description:

As a membrane expert in both gas separation and water treatment, the potential of microporous membrane with superhydrophobic surface in membrane gas absorption and membrane distillation has been individually studied. The superhydrophobic membrane possesses a non-wetting surface like lotus leaf that prevents wetting and fouling. Fast permeation of CO2 through the gas-filled pores was recorded. Minimum fouling in the long operation was also observed. The research team proposed to integrate CO2 gas absorption and calcium carbonate production using calcium-rich waste such as brine. Brine waste produced from the reverse osmosis process contains calcium chlorides that can be converted into valuable carbonates using CO2.

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Best Estimate of GHG Avoidance/Reduction of This Project (Tonnes CO2 Equivalent/Year):

Impact on Underrepresented Groups:

Facing the global decline in oil prices, many oil-exporting countries including Malaysia requires economic diversity. Biogas generation using renewable sources and agricultural waste is most desirable as it generates new income and energy sources that support economic growth sustainably. The promotion of biogas is a giant forward to combat global warming because methane in biogas is a more harmful greenhouse gas than CO2, trapping about 30 times more heat. Carbon capture using membrane technology is not only helpful to upgrade biogas into biomethane with higher calorific and commercial values, but it is also supportive to facilitate carbon storage in waste. In other words, the proposed project enhances the sustainability of the renewable energy industry. Furthermore, the project promotes the use of CO2 in the form of carbonates. Calcium carbonate nanoparticles can be used in papers, coating, concrete as well as biomedical materials. 

Furthermore, this project supports gender diversity. The research teams consist of about 40 % of male engineers and 60 % of female engineers with diverse ethnic and religious backgrounds. The female engineers who worked on carbon capture projects are Dr. Nor Aini Ahmad (Ph.D., 2014-2019), Dr. Nor Naimah Rosyadah Binti Ahmad (Ph. D., 2015-2020) and Ms. Tan Why Ling (M. Sc. candidate, 2019 - present). The project leader is the standing committee of Women Engineers, the Institution of Engineers Malaysia (Penang Branch) that promotes gender diversity in engineering activities.

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