Numerical parametric study on fluid dynamics performance of a novel corrugated fin packing

Abstract

Post-combustion CO₂ chemical absorption represents a promising carbon capture technology. In chemical absorption processes, structured packings are typically employed for absorbers and desorbers. While the structured packing provides an extensive interfacial surface area to promote gas-liquid reactions, it concurrently induces elevated pressure drop across the absorption system. This study innovatively developed a corrugated fin packing (CFP), and its mass transfer enhancement mechanism was investigated by numerical simulation using a double-plate model as a repeating unit with periodic boundary conditions. Single-phase simulations were conducted to analyze the influence of key geometric parameters (corrugated inclination angle, perforated fin dimensions, fin deflection angle, and perforation ratio) on flow characteristics. The results demonstrated that the fin structure significantly improves flow field distribution through flow-guiding effects and turbulence enhancement mechanisms. The parameters' significance on flow resistance followed this order: corrugated inclination angle > perforated fin dimensions > fin deflection angle > perforation ratio. Optimized CFP achieved a 25 % reduction in dry pressure drop compared to conventional packings. Subsequent gas-liquid countercurrent simulations validated CFP's advantages: compared to traditional 250X and 250Y packings, CFP exhibited 17 % and 15 % higher liquid holdup respectively, 22 % reduction in average fluid velocity, and significantly enhanced wetted area. Although the interfacial area was slightly lower than 250Y packing, its unique flow-guiding configuration ensured uniform liquid distribution and demonstrated superior wet pressure drop performance during stable operation. This study provides both theoretical foundation and technical guidance for developing novel low-resistance, high-efficiency carbon capture packings through structural innovation and mechanism exploration.