Conference abstract – TCCS-13: “Pilot tests for qualification of the CESAR1 solvent for flexible operation”

Abstract

Many large-scale capture plants will need to be operated in a flexible and dynamic manner to cope with varying flow rates and/or CO2 concentration in the flue gas from the host plant. Under such circumstances, careful design of the capture plant is required, as well as proper process control to ensure the operating- and product specifications are met. These specifications mainly concern the CO2 capture rate, amine emission limits, and CO2 quality, but other requirements like minimising utility consumption (energy, process- and cooling water) and loss of solvent are also important. Valuable insight into the aspects contributing to the most optimal plant design is achieved from pilot testing combined with simulations. Despite the extensive testing over the last 20-30 years in a number of pilots of different sizes and at different locations, the focus on dynamic testing has been limited, particularly when the operating conditions approach the limits of the pilot plant.

Keywords: Post combustion carbon capture, Amine based CO2 absorption, CESAR1 Solvent, flexible operation, capture plant design.

Authors: Hanne M. Kvamsdal, Thor Mejdell, Asmira Delic, Karol Michalski, Actor Chikukwa, and Lars Hovdahl (SINTEF Industry).