Sun blazing in a clear, blue sky. (Representative image) Getty Images
Scientists have tried countless ways to capture carbon. But what if something as simple and abundant as sunlight could do the trick?
Richard Y. Liu, assistant professor at Harvard, has developed a method that uses sunlight to activate special organic molecules known as photobases. These molecules generate hydroxide ions that can efficiently capture and release CO₂ from the air.
Current methods for direct air capture require large amounts of energy. Liu’s approach is different. By using light itself as the trigger, the process could become far more energy efficient.
The discovery represents a step toward scalable solutions for removing greenhouse gases. Liu emphasizes that the method is reversible and could potentially be powered by sunlight alone.
Molecules do the work
Liu’s passion for chemistry began at Harvard College. Originally interested in physics, he soon realized he was captivated by building molecules in the lab.
Mentored by professors Ted Betley and Eric Jacobsen, he learned to approach molecules creatively and take calculated risks.
During his doctoral work at MIT with Stephen Buchwald, Liu invented new catalysts that allowed complex molecules to be built from simple building blocks. That foundation now guides his lab’s work at Harvard.
The Liu lab focuses on a wide range of challenges. Their research spans organic and inorganic chemistry as well as materials science. The team works on organic redox platforms, metal-based catalysts, and molecules that capture greenhouse gases.
The recent photobase project was a collaboration with Daniel G. Nocera, Patterson Rockwood Professor of Energy. The work exemplifies Liu’s focus on practical solutions. The lab brings together chemists, engineers, and materials scientists, each contributing unique expertise.
Light powers carbon capture
Direct air capture is crucial in the fight against climate change, but energy-intensive methods have limited widespread adoption. Liu’s approach offers a low-energy alternative. By designing molecules that change their chemical state under sunlight, his team shows a path toward a solar-powered solution.
The project was primarily funded by Liu’s NSF CAREER award. Although recent disruptions in federal funding have created challenges, bridge support from Harvard has allowed the research to continue.
Beyond practical applications, the lab serves an educational mission. Liu emphasizes that the work provides students with opportunities to explore bold ideas, gain hands-on experience, and produce complete theses that prepare them for future scientific careers.
Liu hopes that continued investment in science will allow discoveries like photobases to move from the lab to the real world. Research at universities, he notes, may not be profit-driven but can yield societal benefits for generations.
With sunlight as the catalyst, Liu’s team has taken an important step in the quest for cleaner air. Their innovation demonstrates how creative chemistry can help solve one of the planet’s most pressing problems.
The study’s findings have been published in Nature Chemistry.
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