Combined in Silico Optimization of Solvents and Operating Conditions for Carbon Capture Processes

AbstractThe carbon capture process requires a large amount of energy resulting in reduction in power plant power output. This energy penalty must be reduced in order for carbon capture and sequestration (CCS) to become a viable option for reducing carbon emissions. This paper presents an in silico approach aimed at reducing the capture energy penalty through simultaneous screening of capture solvents combined with optimization of process conditions. The computation involves coupling an optimization algorithm to a process model of the pre-combustion carbon capture (Pre-CC) process. A library of 9 physical solvents was selected for screening. Subsequently, optimization of process conditions around these solvents was performed in a typical pressure swing C02 absorption process, with the optimization objective specified for reduction in operating energies. Sulfolane (2,3,4,5-tetrahydrothiophene-1,1-dioxide), an organosulfur compound commonly used for C02 extraction in acid gas removal processes, was found to have the lowest operating energy consumption (352kJ/ kgC02) recovered from syngas