(32f) Carbon Dioxide: An Overview on Removal Technology

Carbon dioxide, which falls into the category of acid gases, is commonly found in natural gas streams at levels as high as 80%. In combination with water, it is highly corrosive and rapidly destroys pipelines and operating equipment unless it is partially removed. Carbon dioxide reduces the heating value of natural gas, wastes pipeline capacity, cracking furnace capacity, can cause freezing and product quality issues

A wide variety of acid gas removal technologies are available. Each process has its own advantages and disadvantages. Gas scrubbers using sodium hydroxide or amines are commonly used. Emerging technologies include Solid Physical Adsorption, Low Temperature Distillation and Membrane Separation. This paper examines the current state of each of these technologies with limits and advantages.