CEMCAP

The objective of WP11 is to derive the optimal configuration for capturing CO₂ in a two-stage separation process employing two different and complementary technologies.

In the first separation stage, CO₂ is separated in bulk from the flue gas by permeation through a membrane module. Due to inherent limitations and practical trade-offs with respect to the ability of the membrane to selectively separate CO₂ from the other gaseous components, the separation product will have limited purity. Therefore, additional purification is required.

The final purification and conditioning of CO₂ is obtained in a low-temperature liquefaction unit in which the membrane permeate is conditioned and compressed, and subsequently cooled to a low temperature typically between -55°C and -50°C. At this point, the CO₂ will be largely liquefied and can be separated from the more volatile components.

Optimisation of the membrane-assisted CO₂ liquefaction process will require evaluation of several parameters and characteristics related to membrane material, process design and operation. This task involves theoretical simulations as well as experimental verification activities for both separation technologies in consideration.

Research partners in WP11 are SINTEF Energy Research (CO₂ liquefaction) and TNO (membrane separation).