Parsa Amin: Innovations in Thin Film MOFs: Next-Generation Materials for Carbon Capture
Innovations in Thin Film MOFs: Next-Generation Materials for Carbon Capture
By Parsa Amin (Ph.D.)
Overview
“Innovations in Thin Film MOFs: Next-Generation Materials for Carbon Capture” focuses on addressing the urgent need for advanced CO₂ capture technologies.
With support from the Walter Ahlström Foundation, our research achieved a major milestone: the first successful anodic electrodeposition of MIL-53(Al) metal-organic framework thin films, published in Microporous and Mesoporous Materials. This innovative electrochemical approach revolutionizes how advanced carbon capture materials are manufactured, making them scalable and cost-effective for industrial applications.
About Myself
My journey began in Iran, where my early interest in physics (leading to a bronze medal in the National Physics Olympiad) and engineering laid the foundation for my career. After gaining industrial experience designing thermal equipment for the energy sector, I realized that my true passion lay in solving the “technical bottlenecks” that prevent sustainable technologies from scaling.
This motivation brought me to Finland and LUT University. I was drawn here specifically by the opportunity to engineer solutions for cold climates, a challenge I find intellectually stimulating and critical for the Nordic region.
Beyond the lab, I am deeply committed to integrating into Finnish society and currently serve as a responsible teacher for the “Research Methodology” and “Process Simulation” courses at LUT.
Innovation & Results
Our breakthrough enables direct electric heating of the MOF films for rapid CO₂ desorption, a game-changer for energy efficiency.
The synthesized films achieved exceptional properties: surface areas up to 876 m²/g, thermal stability to 500°C, and the ability to reach operational temperatures (68°C) within minutes using only electrical current. This eliminates the need for external heating systems, dramatically reducing energy consumption and cycle times in carbon capture processes.
Impact
The Foundation’s support accelerated electrochemical synthesis and advanced characterization, enabling us to optimize synthesis parameters and demonstrate electrothermal functionality.
This technology directly supports Finland’s 2035 carbon neutrality goals and offers immediate applications in the pulp-and-paper and energy sectors. By providing scalable, energy-efficient CO₂ capture solutions, this research bridges laboratory innovation with industrial impact, positioning Finnish industry at the forefront of sustainable technologies.
Future Plans
My immediate focus is completing my doctoral degree in 2027.
Looking beyond graduation, my professional goal is to bridge the gap between laboratory innovation and industrial application within Finland’s cleantech sector.
I aim to join an R&D team at a forward-thinking Finnish company (such as Valmet, Neste, or an emerging cleantech venture) where I can lead projects on carbon capture process development. My vision is to develop solutions specifically optimized for Nordic conditions, turning Finland’s cold climate from an engineering challenge into a technical advantage.
Ultimately, I hope to contribute directly to Finland’s 2035 carbon neutrality targets by helping domestic industries integrate energy-efficient, electrified sorbent systems.