Optimization of an amine-based carbon capture processes based on innovative mixing technology.

Abstract

The escalating emissions of greenhouse gases, particularly carbon dioxide (CO2CO2), pose a significant challenge to global climate stability. In response, extensive research efforts have focused on developing effective carbon capture technologies to mitigate these emissions. Among these methods, post-combustion CO2 CO2 capture via absorption, particularly using amine-based solvents, has garnered significant attention. However, conventional amine-based approaches are hindered by high energy consumption and large equipment requirements. This study explores the optimization of a prototype for carbon capture system using innovative NetMIX technology, which enhances absorption efficiency through oscillatory laminar flow regimes within mixing chambers. Although the experiments were aimed at reducing energy costs as suggested in the literature, it was not further studied in this work, since there was no available methods. Instead, the focus was on measuring the global mass transfer coefficient (K_G a) and capture rate (CR). Results indicate that MEA (Monoethanolamine) 30 wt% solution exhibited superior performance, achieving a CR of 99.7% and a K_G a of 18.1 s⁻¹ at optimal conditions (Q_Gas = 0.50 kg∙h⁻¹, Q_Sol = 5.00 kg∙h⁻¹, T_Strip = 120 ºC, T_(Abs ) = 40 ºC and X_(〖CO〗_(2 ) )= 15%). It was made a comparison with two solvent blends (MEA/MDEA/PZ and MDEA/PZ) and MEA 30 wt% presented the highest efficiencyacy . The study underscores the potential of NetMIX technology to revolutionize carbon capture by enabling more efficient absorption in smaller equipment, thus offering a promising avenue for addressing climate change concerns.