Divea, a start-up based on the Campus Energypolis in Sion, Valais, is developing an innovative technology that captures CO2 from industrial chimneys. Thanks to graphene membranes equipped with microscopic pores, the company founded by Karl Khalil can tackle industrial emissions directly. Having demonstrated the viability of its technology in 2024, the start-up is now preparing to take it to the next level: the transition to continuous production and industrialisation.
The technology developed by Divea lies on a simple yet clever principle. “We are developing graphene membranes, with holes the size of CO2 molecules”, says Karl Khalil. This structure enables the separation of molecules according to their size, capturing the CO2 present in industrial fumes.
This innovation has been successfully tested in the field. The company now has several industrial demonstrators deployed, one in Aigle and one in Lausanne, at the waste incinerator plant. “It is a way to demonstrate the stability of our membranes”, the co-founder clarifies.
A strategic move to prepare for the future
The year 2025 was marked by a significant challenge: the company’s relocation to its new premises at Ronquoz 23. Thanks to the commitment of the entire team, this new site meets the high technical requirements for membrane production, including white rooms and a dedicated production line setup area.
The main challenge for Divea in 2026 is taking the next step. Karl Khalil explains: “We want to transition from batch production to continuous industrial production”.
This transition poses a multidimensional challenge. First, there is the financial aspect, with significant investments required in a highly capital-intensive industry. But the challenge is also technical. Currently, Divea produces membranes of a certain size. “Producing thousands of square meters is clearly another level”, explains Karl Khalil. The transition from a manual process to an automated roller production line is a significant technical improvement.
Beyond CO2 capture
What happens to the captured CO2? Its future depends on the geographical location of the clients. “There are two big categories: either our clients store it underground, or it can be transformed into methane or another form and used as raw material”, explains Karl Khalil. Divea’s business model ends with capture, leaving the CO2 management to clients or partners.
In the foreseeable future, the real transformative potential of graphene membranes will extend far beyond carbon for Divea. These membranes of atomic thickness pave the way for a new paradigm in molecular separation. “The idea is to be able to design pores with angstrom-scale precision”, explains the co-founder of Divea. This opens a range of possibilities for the selective separation of ions, the high-temperature functioning of chemical processes, as well as other cutting-edge applications in various industrial sectors.
More information: Divea
