A citrate sol–gel method to synthesize Li2ZrO3nanocrystals with improved CO2 capture properties

Abstract

Li₂ZrO₃ nanocrystals with improved CO₂ capture properties were synthesized by a citrate sol–gel method. The morphology and structure of the synthesized Li₂ZrO₃ samples were characterized in detail by SEM, TEM, and XRD techniques. The CO₂ capture–regeneration properties of these nanocrystals were investigated by thermogravimetric analysis (TGA) over a wide range of temperatures and of CO₂ partial pressures. The nanosized Li₂ZrO₃ crystallites with a tetragonal phase exhibit a better CO₂ capture performance than reported sorbents, exhibiting a faster uptake and a higher, nearly stoichiometric adsorption capacity (∼26 wt.%). Furthermore, the adsorbent shows a good stability, confirmed by capture–regeneration cycles. Based on these excellent properties, application in sorption-enhanced reaction process (SERP) is anticipated.