Mathematical modeling and simulation of CO2 stripping from monoethanolamine solution using nano porous membrane contactors

A novel model based on the finite element analysis by COMSOL software is built to simulate the flow and concentration in a membrane contactor for stripping of CO2 at high operating temperature. A CFD model was developed by solving the 2D Navier–Stokes equations as well as mass conservation equations for steady-state conditions in polymeric membrane contactors. The model prognosticates the velocity fields and the concentration of CO2 along the membrane under laminar flow regime. The membrane contactor was divided into three compartments, i.e. tube, shell and microporous membrane. The model findings for the stripping of CO2 using the membrane contactor were compared with the experimental data in order to validate the proposed mass transfer model and showed great agreement. Moreover, the simulation results showed that mass transfer resistance of gas phase has a minor effect on the CO2 stripping flux. Increasing temperature and liquid phase velocity cause enhancement of CO2 stripping flux.

► A novel approach in modeling and simulation of membrane stripping process.
► Stripping of CO2 at ambient pressure and temperature.
► Developments in mass transfer mechanisms by means of hydrophobic membranes.