In the quest to decarbonize industrial plants, researchers have turned to a promising technology known as rotating packed beds (RPBs), which could offer a more efficient and cost-effective alternative to traditional carbon capture methods. A recent study published in the journal “Achievements in Engineering” outlines the design and assessment of an industrial-scale carbon capture process using a diethylenetriamine (DETA) solution, marking a significant step forward in the field.
Led by Mohammad Shamsi from the Process Engineering Department at Tarbiat Modares University in Tehran, Iran, the research focuses on the challenges of scaling up RPB absorbers to an industrial level. “Given the diverse sources of CO2 emissions, selecting an efficient and cost-effective carbon capture technology is crucial,” Shamsi explains. The study addresses this need by developing a techno-economic and environmental assessment approach that integrates process costs and carbon tax into a unified metric for evaluating both economic and environmental impacts.
The research team designed an RPB absorber using an iterative methodology for retrofitting an existing petrochemical plant. They determined the optimal liquid-to-gas ratio for the RPB absorber and evaluated variations in loading, CO2 mole fraction, temperature, CO2 capture level, and the concentration of molecular and ionic species in the liquid phase using a steady-state rate-based model. The impact of operating parameters such as liquid temperature, rotation speed, and solvent concentration on the total annual cost for minimizing CO2 avoidance costs was also examined.
One of the most compelling findings of the study is the potential cost-effectiveness of implementing carbon capture technology. Cash flow analysis revealed a net carbon tax avoided of 2771 k$/yr and a CO2 capture cost of $12.3/tCO2. “This indicates the cost-effectiveness of using intensified process technology to address environmental concerns and reduce the process equipment footprint,” Shamsi notes.
The implications of this research for the energy sector are significant. As industries strive to meet increasingly stringent environmental regulations and reduce their carbon footprint, the adoption of technologies like RPBs could play a pivotal role. The study’s findings suggest that not only can these technologies be scaled up to an industrial level, but they can also be economically viable, making them an attractive option for companies looking to decarbonize their operations.
Moreover, the research highlights the importance of a holistic approach that considers both economic and environmental factors. By integrating process costs and carbon tax into a unified metric, the study provides a comprehensive framework for evaluating the feasibility and impact of carbon capture technologies.
As the energy sector continues to evolve, the insights gained from this research could shape future developments in the field. The potential for RPBs to offer a more efficient and cost-effective solution for carbon capture could drive further innovation and adoption of these technologies. For industries grappling with the challenges of decarbonization, the findings of this study offer a glimmer of hope and a roadmap for achieving their environmental goals while maintaining economic viability.