As part of the Nano4EARTH initiative, a national challenge launched by the White House and the National Nanotechnology Initiative, researchers are exploring how innovations at the nanoscale can lead to groundbreaking solutions for a more sustainable future.
Climate change poses a significant threat to national security, according to the Army’s published Climate Strategy. The Army has committed to aggressive goals to mitigate its own impact, including a 50% reduction in net greenhouse gas pollution by 2030 and net-zero emissions by 2050. Nanotechnology is seen as a critical tool in achieving these ambitious targets.
In a recent paper in the journal Nature Nanotechnology, co-author Dr. Mark Griep, a researcher with the DEVCOM Army Research Laboratory, said nano-enabled climate solutions are already transitioning to industrial scale-up, which will help reduce the “green premium” that can be limiting factor for widespread public adoption.
“The climate crisis demands bold, innovative solutions, and nanotechnology offers a unique opportunity to achieve the kind of step-changes needed to mitigate its effects,” Griep said. “By working collaboratively across sectors, we can harness the power of nanotechnology to create a more sustainable and resilient future for the Army and the nation.”
According to Griep, metal organic frameworks, known as MOFs, are being scaled up for greenhouse gases capture applications and should exceed the Department of Energy’s EarthShot carbon capture costs below $100 per ton and become a cost-effective technology.
Griep said he believes the Army can engineer MOFs with catalytic functions for CO2-to-fuel opportunities.
“This would allow for nano-enabled solutions that not only contribute to decarbonizing the Army fleet but simultaneously enabling operational advantage through new fuel sources,” he said.
The Nano4EARTH initiative identified four strategic areas where nanotechnology research aims to address climate change challenges, according to program documents.
The program focuses on batteries and energy storage, where researchers are studying nanomaterials for potential applications in electric vehicle batteries and grid storage systems. According to the Army Climate Strategy, such advances in energy storage technology could support goals for electrifying the transportation sector.
The second focus area examines nanocatalysts for industrial processes. Laboratory studies have shown these materials can potentially improve efficiency in manufacturing processes, including those used in steel, cement and plastics production. Researchers are also investigating methods to convert captured greenhouse gases into other products.
Interface research represents the third strategic area. Scientists are studying how nanotechnology could improve energy efficiency in coatings, lubricants and membranes. Current research includes work on thermal interface materials for electronics and membrane systems for industrial separations.
The fourth area concentrates on greenhouse gas capture and storage technologies. Research teams are investigating MOFs, which are nanoporous materials designed to absorb CO2. Additional studies examine nanomaterials for carbon sequestration in terrestrial and marine environments.
The initiative emphasizes modifications to existing technologies rather than developing entirely new systems. This approach aligns with the Army's stated objectives for implementing climate change mitigation strategies, as outlined in the climate strategy document.
The laboratory's participation in Nano4EARTH highlights the military's commitment to combating climate change, Griep said, not just through operational adaptations but through cutting-edge scientific research.
By leveraging the unique properties of nanomaterials, researchers aim to develop solutions that can transform industries, reduce dependence on fossil fuels, and ultimately mitigate the risks posed by a changing climate, he said.
“The Army is in a unique position to be an innovation leader for climate change solutions as the advanced technologies for achieving climate goals go hand-in-hand with increasing combat effectiveness,” Griep said. “Nano-enabled advancements to energy storage, water purification, and advanced structural materials will be game changers in the civilian world but play an even more crucial role in ensuring the Army’s operational resilience and capabilities in future combat environments.”
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