CARBON DIOXIDE ABSORPTION INTO AMINE-PROMOTED POTASH SOLUTIONS

Examination of equilibrium and rate data on amine-potash systems in terms of an absorption-reaction scheme suggested that rates of CO2 absorption into potash solutions could be significantly increased by addition of small amounts of selected amine promoters. To demonstrate the predicted effect, a brief experimental study was carried out using a stirred absorption cell. Cell characteristics were determined for physical absorption (CO2-H2O), and the degree of rate enhancement was measured for a number of amines with absorption of saturated CO2 at 1 atm. Additional experimental results for the most effective of the amines tested, 2-ethylaminoethanol (EAE), at 25° C. and saturated CO2 pressures of 1 atm. and 75 mm. of Hg were in reasonable agreement with the proposed mechanism. Additional work is recommended to evaluate amine promotion further as a technique for improving commercial CO2 absorption processes involving potash solutions. © 1969, American Chemical Society. All rights reserved.