Rigorous model for predicting the behavior of CO2 absorption into AMP in packed-bed absorption columns

A rigorous computer model was developed for the simulation of the absorption of CO2 in aqueous 2-amino-2-methyl-1-propanol (AMP) solutions in a packed absorption column that takes into account the heat effects. This model predicts the concentration and the temperature profiles along the packed column for the CO2-AMP system. These profiles were compared with the experimental data that were obtained from two pilot-plant studies. The first study was with a column packed with 12.7-mm Berl Saddles, and the second study was with a high-efficiency structured packed absorber. The predicted results were found to be in close agreement with the measured values. For the experimental data from University of British Columbia, the average absolute deviations between the predicted and measured data in terms of concentration and temperature profiles are 9.7% and 2.3%, respectively. For the experimental data from University of Regina, the average absolute deviation between the predicted and measured concentration profiles is 13.8%. The model predictions could be improved by using more accurate physicochemical properties, when available.