New state funding will enhance carbon capture research at Western

KALAMAZOO, Mich.—A major investment from the state of Michigan will keep Western Michigan University on the leading edge of innovation aimed at curbing climate change.

Project Clean MI, led by Dr. Mert Atilhan, associate professor of chemical and paper engineering, and Dr. Autumn Haagsma, director of the Michigan Geological Repository for Research and Education and assistant director of the Michigan Geological Survey, received $750,000 in the latest budget signed by Gov. Gretchen Whitmer. The goal of the project is to develop a system to capture carbon dioxide from the air and safely store it underground, aiding global efforts to limit the impact of greenhouse gas emissions.

"The new funding from the state means more opportunities for our students,” says Atilhan. "We will be able to hire more students and acquire additional equipment, which will significantly enhance our research capabilities."

This new state funding, championed by Sen. Sean McCann, B.A.'93, builds on a $2.25 million federal grant awarded by the U.S. Department of Energy's National Energy Technology Laboratory earlier this year. Atilhan and Haagsma plan to hire undergraduate, graduate and postdoctoral students to help with their cutting-edge research.

"They will receive training in both my lab and in the Michigan Geological Survey labs, sharing experiences and gaining firsthand exposure to world-class research in carbon dioxide capture materials and storage in saline aquifers," Atilhan says. "Additionally, outreach activities in local high schools and the community will provide younger students with insights into how WMU is positioned nationally and globally to combat climate change."

A key component of Project Clean MI is its interdisciplinary nature, allowing students and researchers from both the College of Arts and Sciences and College of Engineering and Applied Sciences to collaborate.

"This project will integrate the geology, engineering and societal considerations, giving students a well-rounded experience and practice on working with team members of diverse disciplines," says Haagsma. "I also see this as a great opportunity for students to apply science to an impactful project, which addresses the global need for clean energy."

Experience-driven learning opportunities will extend beyond the Western campus.

"The project will not only advance scientific research and innovation but also promote environmental awareness and education," Atilhan adds. "Our outreach efforts will engage the community and local schools, inspiring the next generation of scientists and engineers to contribute to solutions for global warming." 

The team is still finalizing project details and expects efforts to get underway in fall 2024.

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