Dynamic modeling and validation of absorber and desorber columns for post-combustion CO2 capture

The paper evaluates, by modeling and simulation, carbon dioxide capture in aqueous solution of monoethanolamine (MEA) in packed absorption columns to be used in power sector for reducing greenhouse gas emissions. The mathematical model of carbon dioxide absorption and rich amine regeneration process includes transfer processes: mass and heat to study the coupled effect of temperature and concentration on the rate of absorption. The reaction kinetics and the vapor-liquid equilibrium (VLE) are other important parts of the model. The present dynamic mathematical model can be used to analyze the absorption rate, to understand the micro level interaction of various processes taking place inside the absorption and desorption column, and to improve the overall design of the system. The aim of the project was to validate the absorber and desorber models, as well as to understand the dynamic behavior of the whole capture-regeneration steps. (C) 2010 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.