Installation Case: Building-HVAC-Integrated Direct Air Capture Unit (2023)
The Client:
Wärtsila, a global leader in innovative technologies and lifecycle solutions for the marine and energy markets and listed as one of TIME’s 100 Most Influential Companies In The World 2023. Our system has been installed in Wärtsilä Sustainable Technology Hub in Vaasa, Finland.
Users:
The company itself.
Background:
As the global population gravitates towards urban centers, CO2 emissions surge, impacting indoor air quality and cognitive function. Rising indoor CO2 levels lead to dizziness, fatigue, and reduced cognitive scores, as demonstrated by Harvard research. Addressing this challenge necessitates innovative approaches that go beyond conventional ventilation strategies. Although the solution might appear straightforward – simply opening windows for ventilation – this proves impractical within enclosed office buildings.
Pain Points:
Wärtsilä wanted to solve the following challenges:
- Limited Ventilation Options: Opening windows in modern office buildings is often unfeasible, posing difficulties in maintaining optimal indoor air quality.
- Escalating CO2 Levels: The surge in urbanization exacerbates CO2 concentration indoors, leading to health concerns and decreased cognitive function.
- Need for Sustainable Solutions: The clients sought eco-conscious remedies that align with their commitment to sustainability.
- Practical Integration: Integrating carbon capture technology without disrupting building design and operations was a primary concern.
- Onsite CO2 Capture Solution Deployment: Wärtsilä needed a carbon dioxide-capturing solution of their own.
Solution:
Soletair Power introduced the HVAC Integrated Direct Air Capture (DAC) Unit, designed in collaboration with Wärtsilä. This technology adds a direct air of CO2 capture in HVAC systems’ airflow. By incorporating proprietary sorbents, Soletair Power unit first adsorbs CO2 from the incoming air. Upon saturation, a regeneration process— utilizing vacuum and heat — collects and stores the captured CO2 inside a container near the building. This integration within established HVAC infrastructure ensures seamless functionality without compromising architectural aesthetics.
Technical Specifications of the Unit:
- Dimensions: 3m x 3m x 3m (L x W x H)
- Capture Capacity: 50 kg/day
- Sorbent Filters: Proprietary amine-functionalized solid sorbents that adsorb CO2 selectively.
- Regeneration Process: Temperature Vacuum Swing Adsorption (TVSA)
- Integration: Compatible with IoT sensors and building automation systems.
Key Benefits:
The HVAC Integrated DAC Unit offers a range of advantages:
- Enhanced Indoor Air Quality: Effective CO2 capture ensures healthier indoor environments, improving employee well-being and cognitive function.
- Energy Efficiency: Dynamic ventilation runtime control reduces HVAC energy costs, optimizing energy consumption and operational efficiency.
- Versatility: Modular design and IoT compatibility allow for easy installation, integration with building automation systems, and potential CO2 utilization in various applications.
- Sustainability: The project aligns with environmental goals by reducing carbon footprints, and promoting sustainable urban development.
CO2 Storgae:
In Vaasa, we have a 3.6 cubic meter tank, which is stationary. The ZBT and Vantaa installations have a 12-bottle bundle (https://mygas.airliquide.be/catalog-gas-products/carbon-dioxide/kooldioxide-bundel-v12%2A50l/i5100v12r0a001), which can be easily transported to another site with a truck. The bundle has 360kg of CO2 when it is at 200 bar. Achieving 200 bar requires a compressor capable of doing so, but it is possible with the correct compressor.
In collaboration with Wärtsilä, Soletair Power’s HVAC Integrated DAC Unit showcases the convergence of innovation and sustainability, serving as a model for future urban design and environmental responsibility.
For more information about this HVAC Integrated Direct Air Capture Unit, please visit www.wartsila.com/sustainable-technology-hub.
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