Rigorous modelling of adiabatic multicomponent CO2 post-combustion capture using hollow fibre membrane contactors. (12th May 2016)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Albarracin Zaidiza, David; Wilson, Seth Gabriel; Belaissaoui, Bouchra; Rode, Sabine; Castel, Christophe; Roizard, Denis; Favre, Eric
• Is Part Of: Chemical engineering science. Volume 145(2016)
• Page Start: 45
• Page End: 58
• Publication Date: 2016-05-12
• Subjects: Carbon dioxide capture -- Adiabatic modelling -- Hollow fibre membrane contactor -- Chemical absorption; Chemical engineering -- Periodicals; Génie chimique -- Périodiques; Chemical engineering; Periodicals; Electronic journals; 660
• DOI: 10.1016/j.ces.2016.01.053
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 0009-2509

Abstract

Abstract: The modelling of adiabatic multicomponent chemical absorption of carbon dioxide by means of hollow fibre membrane contactors is presented. One-dimensional and two-dimensional approaches are compared. A relatively wide operating domain was covered, ranging from fresh solvent and partial MEA conversions which correspond to experimental data, to partially loaded solvent and almost complete MEA conversion which represent industrial conditions. Both models predicted solvent flux reversal through the membrane and significant temperature peaks, up to 75 °C. Moreover, important solvent losses are expected for the absorption unit. For considerably reduced calculation times, the one-dimensional model provided average results that compared well with those of the two-dimensional model. A relative difference of only 2.88% was found in the average absorbed specific flux of CO2 . In the considered operating domain, the diffusion of the complex reaction product, protonated-amine-carbamate, could be considered non-limiting. Furthermore, the use of an average equivalent membrane mass-transfer coefficient was found to be adequate. Finally comparison with the packed bed technology evidenced similar trends and significant process intensification. Graphical abstract: Highlights: In the considered domain, 1D and 2D approaches give similar results. A high temperature peak, related to huge trans-membrane water flux is evidenced. For both, water and MEA, trans-membrane flux reversal occurs. Significant solvent losses are shown, when industrial conditions are applied. Simulation results with average- or distributed-membrane resistances are comparable.