Greenhouse gas capture by triboelectric charging

Abstract

A quartz ampoule with quartz grains is mechanically activated in a dry air-like atmosphere with 0.5 % of one of the major greenhouse gases CO2, CH4, and N2O. The grains rub against each other and the walls of the ampoule during activation, leading to triboelectric charging and erosion. IR spectroscopy shows the greenhouse gases disappear during activation. After activation, the ampoule rests for five days. IR spectra recorded after this period show no reappearance of the greenhouse gases.