18-22 May 2026
NRF-iThemba LABS, Old Faure Road, Cape Town
Africa/Johannesburg timezone

Integrating Localized Carbon Capture, Accelerator-Based Isotope Analysis, and Climate Modeling for Carbon Cycle Monitoring and Sequestration Research

Not scheduled
20m
Auditorium (NRF-iThemba LABS, Old Faure Road, Cape Town)

Auditorium

NRF-iThemba LABS, Old Faure Road, Cape Town

NRF-iThemba LABS Old Faure Road Cape Town GPS Co-ordinates 34.025°S 18.716°E
Oral Environmental Physics & Applications

Speaker

Mr BROWN WEKESA (STUDENT MASENO UNIVERSITY)

Description

Atmospheric carbon dioxide (CO₂) levels have surpassed 420 ppm, with transportation emissions contributing approximately 24% of global energy-related CO₂ output. Mitigating these emissions requires integrated experimental frameworks that combine capture, measurement, and long-term carbon stabilization. This submission presents a conceptual research proposal developed and extensively tested theoretically by the author, which integrates localized carbon capture, accelerator-based isotope analysis, and climate modeling to investigate traceable carbon management pathways. The goal is to transition from theoretical modeling to practical experimental validation with access to advanced laboratory facilities and expert collaboration.
The framework begins with localized capture of CO₂ from mobile combustion sources, which are then redirected into controlled laboratory systems. Using accelerator-based analytical techniques such as mass spectrometry and ion-beam analysis, the captured carbon can be precisely characterized in terms of ¹²C, ¹³C, and ¹⁴C isotopic composition, enabling detailed tracking of carbon origin, transformation, and retention across experimental systems. Following isotopic characterization, carbon streams are proposed to enter experimental carbon conversion and sequestration platforms, including:
Microalgae photobioreactors, converting CO₂ into biomass with high efficiency.
Mineralization processes, forming stable carbonates for long-term storage.
Thermochemical conversion systems, producing biochar and engineered carbon materials for durable carbon storage.
The inclusion of the author-developed climate model allows simulation of localized carbon flows, prediction of system impact on broader atmospheric carbon levels, and optimization of carbon conversion pathways. Integrating modeling with laboratory experiments enables a feedback system where real-world data informs predictive simulations and scenario analysis, strengthening the scientific rigor of the project.
Research Objectives:
Develop a practical experimental setup for capturing CO₂ from localized mobile emissions and channeling it into controlled laboratory systems.
Quantify carbon transformation, movement, and long-term sequestration potential using accelerator-based isotope analysis, with a focus on verifying ¹²C, ¹³C, and ¹⁴C dynamics.
Evaluate and compare multiple carbon conversion pathways, including biological, mineral, and thermochemical approaches, to determine efficiency and storage stability.
Integrate experimental findings with the climate model to assess potential system impact on atmospheric CO₂ and refine predictive capabilities for broader carbon management strategies.
This research concept is presented as the original idea of the submitting author, fully developed theoretically, and now positioned for practical experimentation. The author seeks laboratory access, expert mentorship, and interdisciplinary collaboration to realize this framework. The long-term aim is to establish a scientifically verifiable carbon-management research platform that combines localized carbon capture, isotope-based tracing, and predictive climate modeling, contributing to innovative strategies for reducing global CO₂ emissions.
Keywords: carbon capture, isotope analysis, accelerator mass spectrometry, carbon sequestration, climate modeling, emission monitoring, experimental carbon management, carbon tracing.

through this link one can access the visual sketch work of this project that needs implementation; https://co2-capture-pilot-6uckdu8jqswmnydumaphwc.streamlit.app/

Primary author

Mr BROWN WEKESA (STUDENT MASENO UNIVERSITY)

Presentation Materials

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