The Effect of SO2 on CO2 Absorption in an Aqueous Potassium Carbonate Solvent.

Abstract: In solvent absorption systems for carbon dioxide capture, potassium carbonate shows particular promise as a solvent. One of the advantages of this solvent is that it is more manageable by way of separation and/or cost effectiveness in the presence of SO₂. This paper examines the feasibility of using the same absorber system for simultaneous capture of both CO₂ and SO₂ from post combustion flue gases. Using a dynamic equilibrium apparatus, the changes in the vapour pressure were measured upon the introduction of sulphur dioxide to a CO₂/ N₂ mixed gas stream. It has been shown that there is a small change in the resultant vapour pressure. The overall affect of SO₂ on the efficiency of CO₂ capture is discussed. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]