CO ₂ Concentration Using a Molten Carbonate Electrochemical Cell

A molten carbonate fuel cell has been successfully tested as a carbon dioxide concentrator. We, here, examine cathode performance in terms of removal efficiency, voltage loss and current efficiency at oxidant CO₂ levels typical of manned space cabin atmospheres. A system design based on this concept has the potential advantages of small size, low component cost and high current efficiency at low-CO₂ levels. The disadvantages arrive from the penalties associated with the high-temperature operation.