Important Aspects Regarding the Chemical Stability of Aqueous Amine Solvents for CO2 Capture

Abstract

The chemical stability of aqueous amines is an essential property to study before new amines are introduced in pilot plants, to reduce risks related to the operation, cost and environment. There are no standard methods for studying degradation and no standardized way of knowing which components to search for. This work will give an overview of the current status of amine degradation research with recommendations for further work within this field. Degradation of aqueous amines in the CO2 absorption process will always occur, though some amines are more stable than others. Degradation leads to compounds with various functional groups, some of which require monitoring from an environmental or health perspective. Future experimental activity should focus on closing the knowledge gaps. Improved knowledge could help to better predict and monitor degradation, help design better mitigation technologies, and minimize solvent degradation by fine-tuning the plant operation.