Simulation-Based Optimization of Gas Centrifuge Configurations for CO2 Capture and Carbon Sequestration
Session Number
1
Advisor(s)
Dr. Eric Hawker, Illinois Mathematics and Science Academy
Location
B108
Discipline
Engineering
Start Date
15-4-2026 10:15 AM
End Date
15-4-2026 11:00 AM
Abstract
Anthropogenic carbon dioxide (CO2) emissions are a major driver of climate change, motivating the need for more effective carbon capture and storage methods. This study investigates the potential of using gas centrifuge systems for CO2 separation and enrichment (Oh & Lee 2022). Using computer simulations, we model the outputs of CO2 within rotating centrifuge chambers and examine how changes in rotational speed, chamber geometry, gas flow, and temperature impact separation efficiency and enrichment levels. By running randomized simulations and analyzing different setups, we identify the best centrifuge designs that maximize CO2 enrichment per energy used while maintaining feasible operational conditions. This is then expanded to multiple centrifuge stages, each optimized to maximize CO2 enrichment and minimize energy use. In addition to optimizing the enrichment process, this research investigates potential storage methods for the long-term sequestration of concentrated CO2. Geological storage options, including deep saline aquifers and deep oceans, are evaluated based on storage capacity, stability, and environmental risks (Gidden et al., 2025). The integration of optimized centrifuge-based enrichment with effective long-term sequestration sites creates a potential framework for reducing atmospheric CO2 concentrations.
Simulation-Based Optimization of Gas Centrifuge Configurations for CO2 Capture and Carbon Sequestration
B108
Anthropogenic carbon dioxide (CO2) emissions are a major driver of climate change, motivating the need for more effective carbon capture and storage methods. This study investigates the potential of using gas centrifuge systems for CO2 separation and enrichment (Oh & Lee 2022). Using computer simulations, we model the outputs of CO2 within rotating centrifuge chambers and examine how changes in rotational speed, chamber geometry, gas flow, and temperature impact separation efficiency and enrichment levels. By running randomized simulations and analyzing different setups, we identify the best centrifuge designs that maximize CO2 enrichment per energy used while maintaining feasible operational conditions. This is then expanded to multiple centrifuge stages, each optimized to maximize CO2 enrichment and minimize energy use. In addition to optimizing the enrichment process, this research investigates potential storage methods for the long-term sequestration of concentrated CO2. Geological storage options, including deep saline aquifers and deep oceans, are evaluated based on storage capacity, stability, and environmental risks (Gidden et al., 2025). The integration of optimized centrifuge-based enrichment with effective long-term sequestration sites creates a potential framework for reducing atmospheric CO2 concentrations.