13 – Process modifications for CO2 capture

Performance of CO2 removal processes by absorption in amine solvent can be improved in two main ways: developing new solvents and optimizing the process design. This chapter reviews and analyses process design options. These options have been sorted into four mains categories: one for the investment cost reduction and three for energy consumption reduction through either enhancement of CO2 absorption, heat integration, or heat pump effects. Improving the process flow scheme can significantly reduce energy consumption and/or cost with a large number of possible configurations. In the most advanced configurations, reduction of overall energy consumption of more than 30% can be achieved. A discussion regarding the critical aspects of additional plant complexity, interaction between solvent properties, and process modification is also included.