Enhancing CO2 capture efficiency: Computational fluid dynamics investigation of gas-liquid vortex reactor configurations for process intensification

Abstract

This study employs non-thermal Computational Fluid Dynamics (CFD) simulations to explore the efficacy of a gas–liquid vortex reactor (GLVR) for intensifying CO₂ capture. The investigation concentrates on the multiphase flow and mass transfer behavior in diverse GLVR experimental units. Employing a multiphase Euler-Euler CFD model integrated with a Population Balance Model (CFD-PBM), a mass transfer model, and reaction kinetics, allows us to accurately simulate the reactive absorption of CO₂ into aqueous Monoethanolamine (MEA). Experiments are conducted using a 30 wt% MEA solution for CO₂ absorption, serving the purpose of model validation. This comprehensive approach enables a simulation of complex dynamics within the GLVR, emphasizing bubble breakage, coalescence, and reactive mass transfer processes. Examining bubble size distribution, pressure drop, CO₂ absorption efficiency, and energy input systematically across various reactor geometries and operational conditions, our findings demonstrate that an optimized GLVR configuration significantly enhances CO₂ absorption compared to the original design. Furthermore, the optimized GLVR outperforms state-of-the-art process intensification equipment in terms of CO₂ absorption rate per unit reactor volume and energy efficiency.