Catching and Releasing of CO₂ gas

This CO₂-process is a new and novel carbonate process based on post-combustion gases combining two process units. One unit contains rapidly rotating discs for an improved mass transfer, together with another unit who also contains rapidly rotating discs for a more rapid mass transfer of the CO₂ from the solution. The solution here is heated up to the solution’s boiling point, thus releasing the CO₂-gas and avoiding pressure units.
Before this pilot period, from 2007 up to 2011, and also with continued research up to date, a large numbers of tests were done, for the best results in respect to energy consumption, mass transfer and pollution ability, which is none.

The results showed that an energy consumption by using a unit containing 100 discs would be as low as 2.78 MJ/kg CO₂, with more than 80% mass transfer. This figure is extrapolated from the use of 15 discs and corrected for estimated heat loss from uninsulated areas. The calculated energy requirement does therefore have some uncertainty.

The solution was heated by electric power which was more controllable, with no need for pressurized steam, hence an easier and safer operational plant.
The solvent contained all from 0.2 to 1.8 mols/liter solution (= 30 to 250 grams/liter).
The best results were obtained when we used 250 grams/liter of Potassium Carbonate. This created no sediments in the process units, which is of an importance for a smooth operation. It also gave less mass of solution to heat up to its boiling point of about 102 oC (= 215 oF).