Ionic liquids in gas separation processing

Ionic liquids (ILs) are recognized as novel solvents for both acid and base gases separations in industrial processes to solve the possible problems caused by the traditional organic solvent methods, such as high energy consumption and second pollutions. In this paper, the absorption performance and absorption mechanism of several typical gases, including CO2, SO2, H2S and NH3, in conventional and functionalized ILs are briefly summarized and discussed. Besides, the method of screening ILs with COSMOS-RS, and the process simulation, assessment and design for new IL-based gas separation processes are also reviewed.