Process Implications of CO2 Capture Solvent Selection

In the development of energy efficient solvents for advanced CO2 capture processes, it has often been the case that potentially excellent solvents are overlooked or set aside because of perceived process difficulties or extra costs due to the physical, chemical or thermodynamic properties of the solvent. This chapter considers the process implications of solvent selection with the objective of selecting and designing the process to suit the solvent rather than forcing the solvent into an existing process. The chapter discusses the design, modelling and costing of conventional amine processes insofar as advanced energy efficient solvents still rely on this process. Individual solvent properties, including reaction kinetics, thermodynamics and physical properties are outlined and their impact on design are discussed. Aspects such as degradation products, corrosivity and environmental considerations will impact the selection of process equipment and materials of construction. The impact of these properties of energy efficient solvents on individual unit operations are also discussed in some detail.