# I-Corps: Translation Potential of Functionalized Nanocellulose Xerogels for Carbon Dioxide Capture

> **NSF 01002526DB NSF RESEARCH & RELATED ACTIVIT** · University of Massachusetts Amherst (MA) · $50,000

## Abstract

This I-Corps project is based on the development of a material for capturing carbon dioxide (CO₂) emissions from industrial and power plant sources. Billions of tons of CO₂ are emitted globally each year, and there is a need for scalable, cost-effective capture technologies. Current solutions are often energy-intensive, toxic, and/or prohibitively expensive. This technology uses a bio-degradable, non-toxic material derived from renewable feedstocks such as wood and agricultural waste. Commercial applications include the sequestration of exhaust gases and passive CO₂ capture from the atmosphere in industries such as energy production, cement and concrete manufacturing, and air purification, with broader applications in filtration and thermal insulation. The material’s lightweight, porous structure enables efficient CO₂ adsorption, while its simple manufacturing method allows for shaping into a variety of forms for many applications. This technology may provide a low-cost, environmentally responsible material that is easily produced, regenerated, and, at the end of its lifecycle, recycled, mulched as fertilizer or incorporated into concrete.

This I-Corps project utilizes experiential learning coupled with a first-hand investigation of the industry ecosystem to assess the translation potential of nanocellulose xerogels for carbon dioxide (CO₂) capture. The material is produced from renewable feedstocks such as wood and agricultural waste using a combination of freeze–thaw tou

## Key facts

- **NSF award ID:** 2533659
- **Awardee organization:** University of Massachusetts Amherst (MA)
- **SAM.gov UEI:** VGJHK59NMPK9
- **PI:** Kenneth R Carter
- **Primary program:** 01002526DB NSF RESEARCH & RELATED ACTIVIT
- **All programs:** NANOTECHNOLOGY INITIATIVE
- **Estimated total:** $50,000
- **Funds obligated:** $50,000
- **Transaction type:** Standard Grant
- **Period:** 06/15/2025 → 05/31/2026

## Primary source

NSF Award Search: https://www.nsf.gov/awardsearch/showAward?AWD_ID=2533659

## Citation

> US National Science Foundation, Award 2533659, I-Corps: Translation Potential of Functionalized Nanocellulose Xerogels for Carbon Dioxide Capture. Retrieved via AI Analytics 2026-06-08 from https://api.ai-analytics.org/grant/nsf/2533659. Licensed CC0.

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