Prediction of CO₂ absorption capacity of MEA absorption system in the presence of HSS: article

Heat Stable Salt (HSS) accumulation has a detrimental impact on amine system operations as it can reduce the effective capacity of the amine solution, contribute to corrosion and aggravate operational problems such as foaming, amine loss, and fouling. It was reported in a refinery experience, operational problems arise only when the HSS accumulate at high concentration especially at the absorber column. The main aim of this research is to study the effect on CO₂ loading in the rich amine coming out from the absorber. This is done with the presence of sulfate, acetate, and formate at different temperatures, pressures and HSS concentrations. MEA is chosen as the lean amine because it is the most common amine used in the industry. It is observed that the presence of HSS lowers the CO₂ absorption performance. Temperature and HSS concentration have significant effect on the CO₂ loading in the rich amine stream while there is almost no changes when pressure changes. By forecasting the parameter that affect the HSS in the absorber, mitigation measures can be taken at early stage to prevent these unwanted problems and reduce downtime for the HSS removal treatment.