Separation of a binary gas mixture by pressure swing adsorption: Comparison of different PSA cycles

Abstract

Gas separation of a binary gas mixture by various pressure swing adsorption (PSA) cycles was studied by a numerical simulation in order to provide a guidance in selecting PSA cycles. PSA cycles considered in this study are 3, 4-step cycles for production of only one component and a cycle with pressure equalization for production of a light component. 4 and 5-step cycles for simultaneous production of both components of a binary gas mixture are also considered. Separation of a CH4/CO2 gas mixture with zeolite 5A was chosen as a case study. Performances of cycles were examined and compared in view of purity, recovery and productivity. Their relative advantages were discussed. Inclusion of a purging step to a 3-step cycle for production of only one component improves a cycle performance. Further performance improvement of a cycle for production of a light component can be achieved by employing pressure equalization. Sircar's 4-step cycle with a recycle of effluent shows the best performance in view of purity and recovery among cycles for simultaneous production of both components.