Modeling and simulation of hollow fiber modules of hybrid facilitated transport membranes for flue gas CO₂ capture

Modeling and simulation framework on CO₂ capture process from post-combustion CO₂ capture was developed by a hollow fiber membrane technology. The membrane cell was modeled using Aspen Custom modeler and exported to Aspen Plus software as a membrane unit. Aspen Plus methodology was effectively implemented to estimate the physical and chemical CO₂ absorption parameters by kinetic and thermodynamic models. The membrane cell for the permeation of gas mixtures was custom-built and successfully imported into the simulation tool, as no model block for the hollow fiber membrane was included yet in the commercial package for a process flowsheet simulation. The transport mechanism in hollow fiber membranes is discussed and both empirical and theoretical models are presented for the solution-diffusion theory of gases in membranes. The goal of the modeling of membrane cells is to design and optimize membranes for carbon capture processes. The concept of modeling of membrane process is identified and some of the most important aspects of the simulation of membrane systems are discussed. As the reference, CO₂ flux of more than 700 NL m⁻²h⁻¹ through membrane cell was obtained. Challenges adversely affecting the separation performance of hollow fiber-based gas separation membranes are explained in detail and the significance of incorporating the effect of such challenges into membrane models is clarified.