Micro-cell technology: A novel CO2 capture and separation process

Abstract

Curtin Contamination Tolerant Process (CCTP) or Micro-cell is a process in which components such as carbon dioxide (and hydrogen sulphide) and heavy hydrocarbons are removed as part of the cryogenic process of liquefying natural gas. This integrated process is expected to substantially reduce the capital and operating costs associated with typical LNG plants by eliminating the gas pre-treatment stage from the liquefaction process. Liquefaction of natural gas serves to overcome these obstacles, and permits transport over larger distances allowing for a more diverse application of liquefied natural gas (LNG). Natural gas can be liquefied only under certain conditions after purification. The gas purification is needed to remove impurities such as water, carbon dioxide, and hydrogen sulfide. Almost all natural gases contain some components which solidify when natural gas is transformed to LNG at atmospheric pressure. Some components must be removed to meet the LNG specification. It is essential to remove these impurities down to a concentration where they do not present a problem.