Post-Combustion Carbon Capture for HVAC&R: A Retrofit Module for Building Sustainability

This project explores a novel retrofit approach to carbon capture in HVAC&R systems, with the goal of reducing building-related CO₂ emissions. Students worked with guidance from faculty advisor Dr. Steffen Peuker to design a modular system that captures carbon from natural gas boiler exhaust using a combination of temperature swing adsorption and potassium hydroxide scrubbing. The captured CO₂ is then repurposed into potassium carbonate for use in products like soap and fertilizers, or liquefied for sequestration in concrete through cement manufacturing. The design prioritizes low-impact materials and scalable integration in both residential and commercial buildings, with lifecycle analysis showing up to a 47% reduction in emissions. This project supports emerging ASHRAE standards and reflects growing momentum toward decarbonizing the built environment.