Evaluation of Five Alternative CO2 Capture Technologies with Insights to Inform Further Development

Abstract The high cost of CO 2 capture using amine solvents from combustion sources such as natural gas-fired power plants remains a barrier to the adoption of CO 2 Capture and Storage (CCS) as a climate change mitigation measure. The objective of the work reported in this paper was to carry out a preliminary assessment of the potential of five alternative technologies suitable for post-combustion CO 2 capture from natural gas derived exhaust gases: • CO 2 permeable membranes • Molten Carbonate Fuel Cells • High-pressure solvent absorption from high-pressure exhaust gas from pressurised combustion / power generation • High-pressure solvent absorption supported by exhaust gas compression • Supersonic flow driven CO 2 deposition The results of the performance and cost evaluation for each technology are explained and the prospects for significant cost reduction compared to a state-of-the-art CO 2 capture process are discussed. Recommendations for further technology development activity are summarised in the conclusion of the paper.