Adsorbent Chemical Plant for Carbon Capture

Timeline

March 2023 - June 2023

Client

Chemical Engineering Product Design Class

Capture and Storage of CO2

Escalating concerns surrounding climate change and the rising levels of carbon dioxide (CO2) in the atmosphere have underscored the urgent need for effective carbon capture and sequestration technologies.

In this project we were tasked with building a plant that would  capture at least 1 million pounds of CO2 annually  from air and prevent its reentry into the atmosphere for at least a  1000 years  . We were also given that the plant should be able to   operate at near ambient conditions and around 60% humidity.  

Assessment of Different Methods

Focusing primarily on energy efficiency as our main efficiency metric, we found that adsorbent capture methods are generally more energy-efficient than absorbents, operating under ambient conditions with minimal energy input. .  

After a literature review, we used a criterion matrix to hone in on two promising options, nanostructured and hybrid adsorbents. We assessed critical metrics like regeneration energy, adsorbent stability, adsorption capacity, and selectivity, alongside considering cost, scalability, environmental impact, and technology maturity.

Assessment Matrix for Hybrid Adsorbents

Criterion Matrix for Different Adsorbents

Assessment Matrix for Nanostructured Adsorbents

Determination and Evaluation of Process

Following the down-select matrix we decided to use hybrid MOFs for our process specifically mmen-Mg2(dobpdc) . We proposed a five-step Temperature-Vacuum Swing Adsorption (TVSA) for the carbon capture process. We also decided to use underground injection for carbon capture due to energy efficiency. 

Relevant Values for Feasibility Calculations

TVSA process

To evaluate the system's feasibility under the specified conditions, we conducted a series of calculations to ascertain the required energy input, determine the necessary reactor sizes, and assess the capability of the hybridized MOF to capture the designated amounts of CO2.

Energy Requirements and Cost

Our finalized design leverages the hybrid MOF mmen-Mg2(dobpdc) within a Temperature-Vacuum-Swing Adsorption (TVSA) plant for direct air capture of CO2, subsequently employing underground injection for its perpetual storage.

In terms of energy demands, the industrial procedure is projected to require approximately 324,265 kWh annually, with a estimated yearly expenditure of $56,699. When integrated with sequestration costs, the annual total is anticipated to be around $77,111.

Carbon Sequestration