Optimum operating parameters of CO2 sorption in turbulent fluidized bed regime using potassium carbonate supported on gamma alumina solid sorbent

Abstract

The promising solid sorbent, potassium carbonate (K₂CO₃) supported on gamma alumina (γ-Al₂O₃) was prepared through impregnation by insertion into the sorption turbulent riser to determine the optimum operating parameters. A sorption temperature of 60 °C, superficial gas velocity of 0.22 m s⁻¹, and initial sorbent loading of 5 g were determined to be the optimum conditions so that 93 percent of the actual loaded K₂CO₃ could react with CO₂ to obtain the highest CO₂ sorption capacity at 279.95 mg of CO₂/g of K₂CO₃. 2³ factorial design plus center points were used to analyze the result of the main effect and interaction between the operating parameters. The sorption temperature, superficial gas velocity, and sorbent loading all impacted the response parameter. From the obtained interpretation, interaction between sorption temperature and superficial gas velocity, as well as between sorption temperature and initial sorbent loading, portrayed statistically significant effects on CO₂ capture capacity. Calculations showed that concentration of treated gas was greatly reduced. This distinguished breakthrough behavior provided a step toward designing a continuous reactor to maximize CO₂ capture. However, one major obstacle for this design was the persisting formation of hydrated potassium dawsonite, a side product of conventional heat regeneration.