Investigation of Laboratory Scale Absorption of Carbon Dioxide in a Packed Column using Potassium Carbonate and Monoethanolamine
Reduction of greenhouse gas emission is an important mitigation effort in the midst of rising global temperatures. One option is CO2 capture using suitable alkali solutions in an optimal manner. To address this laboratory scale experiments were conducted using two of such solutions; potassium carbonate (K2CO3) and monoethanolamine (MEA). Absorption of CO2 was conducted using a packed column filled with Pall ring packing. Experimental parameters for trials of both solutions were selected to be consistent with each other to ensure that appropriate comparisons could be made. The mass transfer characteristics were determined by modelling the columns in Aspen Plus using RADFRAC, a rigorous mass transfer model. Since both solutions show relatively complex electrolytic, thermodynamic and kinetic behaviours with carbon dioxide, Aspen Plus Data Fit has been utilized to analyse the performance of the columns. Data Fit analysis is a useful utility in Aspen Plus for the matching of models to actual plant, pilot plant or laboratory systems. The experimental data was analysed and Murphree stage efficiencies were estimated using the regression facility. Data Fit was also used to determine the mass balance of the unmeasured streams.