Novel solid sorbents for CO2-capture

This collaboration program between the University of Rennes and the Insitute for Energiteknikk (IFE) aims at the evaluation and development of a novel type of solid sorbents for low-temperature CO2 capture. The processes developed for CO2-capture from f lue gases up to now, use chemical solvents like amines, carbonate solutions or ammonia, to absorb CO2 in a scrubbing/stripping process. Although a lot of efforts are put to improve the capture performances and the economics of these processes, they remain costly and energy intensive because of the large volume of gas to be treated, the low CO2-partial pressure in the flue gas, the presence of contaminants and the energy demand required to regenerate the solvents. In addition the degradation of the amine s olvent during operation and their partial volatility introduce the need of washing the gas streams while the impact on health and environments are still the subject of scientific studies. Solid sorbents has been recently identified as a promising altern ative for CO2 separation and is considered as a viable option to compete with the more mature solvent technology. IFE has developed an extended experience in the development of innovative materials for gas cleaning technologies and CO2 separation. The nit ride research group in Rennes has been working on nitrogen-rich ceramic materials for more than 20 years. Nitride materials are foreseen as interesting candidates for CO2 separation. Indeed, the introduction of basic nitrogen compounds in the composition of the material modifies the acid-base surface properties and increases the reactivity towards acid gases such as CO2. In this program, the CO2 sorption properties of selected inorganic sorbents will be evaluated and the influence of the introduction of nitrogen in their structure will be investigated. Based on the combined expertise of the two research institutions and promising preliminary results, major breakthough are expected in the field of CO2 capture.