Techno-Economic Analysis of CO2 Capture technologies

Master Project/Semester project 2025, available now

Aim

This project aims to conduct a comprehensive analysis of CO₂ capture using Temperature Swing Adsorption (TSA) and Temperature-Vacuum Swing Adsorption (TVSA) technologies. By employing various adsorbents, including Metal-Organic Frameworks (MOFs) and Silica, the project will systematically compare these two processes, varying key parameters like temperature, pressure, and cycle time to optimize performance. Energy consumption for both TSA and TVSA will be simulated and analyzed, contributing to sustainable solutions for global warming mitigation and promoting the transition toward a low-carbon future.

Objectives

  1. Process Comparison:
    Compare the performance of TSA and TVSA processes in terms of adsorption efficiency, energy consumption, and cycle time.

  2. Parameter Variation:
    Understand the effects of varying operational parameters like temperature, pressure, and cycle time on CO₂ capture efficiency for both TSA and TVSA.

  3. Energy Simulation:
    Simulate and compute the energy consumption for TSA and TVSA processes to evaluate their feasibility for industrial-scale applications.

  4. Techno-Economic Analysis:
    Conduct a cost-benefit analysis that considers capital expenditures (CAPEX), operational expenditures (OPEX), and return on investment (ROI).

  5. Optimization:
    Identify the optimal set of parameters and adsorbents for cost-effective and energy-efficient CO₂ capture.

  6. Scalability Assessment:
    Evaluate the scalability of the optimized system for industrial applications, contributing to sustainable development goals.

Skills

  • Strong interest in carbon capture technologies, sustainability, and climate change mitigation.
  • Independent and motivated.
  • Proficiency in Python or MATLAB for simulations and modeling.
  • Ability to interpret results and write reports.
  • English proficiency (C1/C2 level).
  • Systematic thinking and problem-solving orientation.
  • Background in Chemical Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Computer Science, or Energy Engineering.

Supervision

If interested, please contact Sanjay Venkatachalam (sanjay.venkatachalam@epfl.ch/+41 076 265 33 58) attaching your CV, Cover Letter and transcript of records (Bachelor’s and Master’s). Short-listed candidates will be interviewed. Early applications are encouraged.

Practical information

The IPESE laboratory is located in the Sion EPFL campus. Travels between Lausanne and Sion are compensated by EPFL.