An important adjudication in Carbon Capture investments where liquid treating chemistry is utilized is the assurance that “every” molecule of chemistry which circulates between the absorber, hydraulic function and regenerator is maintained at peak efficiency “always”. It can be stated that, assuming a well-designed mechanical system, if a client gets into operational trouble, and experiences substantial cost overruns it is almost always the result of impurities which have been co absorbed or created within the treating chemistry. These impurities take up space and can cause efficiency reductions or operational instability because they take away capacity of the solvents treating potential per unit volume circulated and/or cause frothing, foaming or accelerated corrosion. The challenge – particularly when oxygen is present – is that multiple families of impurities can accumulate – all with differing concentrations and different physical properties. Another challenge is accumulation rate.

 

Therefore, the single most important design criteria is ensuring the continuous efficiency of the chemistry as it is introduced to the top tray of the absorber and anticipating the effects of impurities. Accumulated impurities are a straight-line reduction in the technical, economic and environmental performance of the client’s investment. A well designed and well sized solvent assurance module represents the best opportunity a client can have for an insurance policy in these capital-intensive investments.

 

Carbon Capture and Reclaiming Services (CCRS) are experts in designing solvent assurance modules. This presentation will discuss our experiences with designing effective purification and waste management systems including our recent experiences with a world class installation in northern Alberta Canada.