Techno-economic assessment of membrane gas absorption for the production of carbon dioxide from flue gas

Membrane gas absorption for carbon dioxide production from flue gases is discussed with special reference to the economics of the supply of carbon dioxide to greenhouses in the Netherlands. Novel absorption liquids have been introduced which show an excellent performance in terms of system stability and mass transfer when used in combination with commercially available, inexpensive polyolefin membranes. The process development is carried out in a phased project supported by various industries. Results in mass transfer and energy consumption achieved in a pilot plant are presented. Pilot plant tested have been executed using both model flue gas and real flue gas. Carbon dioxide can be produced by the membrane gas absorption process and delivered to greenhouses at lower costs than current supply methods. The operating time appears to be an important factor in the economic evaluation.