Simulation and Experimental Studies on Sustainable Process Optimization of CO2 Adsorption Using Zeolite 5A Pellet

Abstract

This study focused on a quantitative study of the CO2 adsorption dynamic within the adsorbent particle. It could drive and improve ideal pore characteristics and the adsorption process efficiency. The parameters operating conditions for the CO2 adsorption process of zeolite 5A pellet were studied using Aspen Adsorption. The effects of compression force (200–400 MPa), compression time (5–15 min), and addition of bentonite binder (0–15% wt. of bentonite binder) for zeolite 5A pelletization and temperature for CO2 adsorption ranging from 298–373 K were studied. There was an error from the simulation of approximately 0.34–10.62% compared to the experimental results. The results showed that the interparticle voidage was reduced, and the appropriate mass transfer was required for good CO2 adsorption capacity. Reduction of interparticle voidage is achieved using a small compression force, a short compression duration, and a small bentonite binder, all of which significantly increase CO2 adsorption capacity. The mass transfer must be within the optimum range because it will decrease the contact time between the zeolite surface and the CO2 molecules. The CO2 adsorption increases with the gas phase temperature decrease. The result showed that the maximum CO2 adsorption by zeolite 5A was 7.078 mmol CO2/g with 0 wt% bentonite binder, 200 MPa, and 5 min at 298 K, 1 atm pressure.