A total of 27 MOFs produced in powder form at small scale were investigated and characterized through experimental measurements and theoretical simulations in terms of CO2 adsorption capacity, CO2/N2 selectivity, stability and regeneration in the presence of contaminants.
From this initial screening, five promising MOFs were selected based on their performances, stability, cost, environmental impact, and potential for large-scale production. These MOFs were scaled up to 500 g, shaped, fully characterized, and their adsorption properties were assessed. Two MOFs were further chosen for synthesis and shaping at 3-5 kg scale using different binders. Their adsorption properties were assessed through: (i) pure CO2 and N2 adsorption isotherm measurements; (ii) stability tests against water and other contaminants; (iii) breakthrough curve measurements.
Based on these results and additional considerations such as ligand and metallic precursor costs and availability, one MOF (MIL-160(Al)) was selected for testing in a VPSA process at both lab and industrial pilot scales. A second MOF was tested at lab-scale (MIL-120(Al)).
In an alternative configuration: MBTSA (Moving Bed Thermal Swing Adsorption), two MOFs (MIL-120(Al)) and Ni-MOF-74) have been tested.
Modelling confirmed the performance of the selected MOFs. For the MBTSA process, simulations demonstrated that the selected MOF could exceed the targets, achieving CO2 purity and recovery above 95% and 90%, respectively. Simulations with the second MOF in the VPSA process enabled the selection of the optimal bed/column configuration to meet performance targets.
Both MOFs were tested at lab-scale pilot units. Concerning MBTSA, first measurements were conducted, but further developments are still needed. Regarding the VPSA, the lab-scale pilot successfully validated the promising simulation-based predictions for the selected MOF. Additionally, operational requirements were highlighted for consideration in the industrial pilots.
From a demonstration point of view, 3 pilot plan configurations were studied based on site specific gas compositions. A techno-economic assessment (TEA) of the MOF based carbon capture system revealed a clear cost gap between PSA and TSA cycles. Moreover, a CAPEX estimation of the VPSA MOF-based CO2 capture process was also completed.
At the TCM site, the maximum CO2 purity achieved was 95.6 ± 3.6 % with a recovery of 91.1 ± 0.3 % and an energy consumption of 743 ± 12.2 kWh/ton, based on a 2-hour operating period representing 35 consecutive cycles. At the other sites, while the results were less promising, they remained consistent with the initial results at TCM site. Further improvements to the pilot are needed to reach similar performances across all sites.
A report on the legislative and regulatory conditions in participating countries, as well as on an EU level was done. In parallel, a survey was conducted, collecting over 1,750 answers from citizens (250 answers per participating country) as well as 25 interviews with national key-stakeholders. This study provided insights into social acceptance of CCS. The results were used to develop public engagement guidelines and communication scenarios, which considered the enhancement of public and stakeholder awareness concerning CCS-related aspects.
The Industrial Cluster Board is composed of various energy intensive industries in the main CO2 emissions sectors (cement, energy, chemistry, glass, refractories), and technology providers for CO2 capture or CO2 transportation. The industries followed the outcomes of the project, especially in terms of maturity and cost of the carbon capture solutions, mainly for possible transfer onto their industries.
To support dissemination, various communication tools were developed (website, social media posts, etc) and dedicated dissemination events were organised. Joint activities were also launched with other EU-funded H2020 projects.
