Researchers at RMIT University have developed a method to transform eucalyptus bark, a common forestry waste product, into highly porous carbon. This material can be used to filter pollutants from air and water and capture carbon dioxide.
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RMIT found a way to turn eucalyptus bark waste into porous carbon for filtration and CO2 capture. It uses a one step process instead of the usual multi stage methods. Interesting use of biomass that does not compete with food crops.
The lab results look good, but I want to see the cost per ton compared to commercial activated carbon. If the processing is actually simple, it could be a cheap drop in replacement for industrial filters.
Agreed on the costs. Also, what is the saturation point for the CO2 capture? If it needs frequent regeneration with high heat, the energy penalty might eat the benefits.
From a policy side, this fits the circular economy narrative. The real question is whether this qualifies for carbon removal credits if used for sequestration, or if it is just viewed as a waste management win.
