Optimum structured adsorbents for gas separation processes
Recent developments in separation technology by adsorption have focused mainly on the use of new shaped structured materials which offer some attractive characteristics compared to a typical packed bed. Finding an adequate adsorbent structure to achieve high productivity is an important primary research activity to improve adsorption processes based on time, energy consumption and performance.
Therefore, this project aims to optimize the performance of different adsorbent configurations in order to address deficiencies associated with conventional adsorbent structures. In particular, foam, monolithic and laminate structures are evaluated and compared to a packed bed of pellets. In order to assess the performance of alternate adsorbents, a variety of numerical models are developed to predict their behaviour and, in particular, to examine their performance in terms of gas separation efficiency and product purity. The results from these mathematical models are used to guide for future experimental work and simulation of obtained data. The effects of physical adsorbent parameters which govern the performance of the PSA process on adsorbent performance are considered during model development. Comparisons are carried out based on mass and heat transfer, adsorbent loading and pressure drop characteristics of the PSA system for CO2/N2 separation. Moreover, synthesis, characterization and simulation of structured adsorbents in the form of thin zeolite films supported on monoliths for CO2 capturing in PSA systems would be performed.
Project is funded by Monash Research Graduate School(MRGS), and it is a collaboration between Monash University and LTU.
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