Inverted Microdroplets (Microbubbles) Induced Interfacial Water Protonation to Promote Alkaline Release of Amine and Reduce Energy in CCS

This study engineered a superacidic interface with a pronounced polar electric field within the amine-water system by inducing hydrogen bond charge transfer in interfacial water via inverted microdroplets (microbubbles), thereby stabilizing protons within the interfacial water layer. This mechanism enabled the continuous alkaline release of hindered amines (AMP-MIS), enhancing CO₂ absorption load capacity and reducing regeneration energy consumption. Nuclear magnetic resonance and potentiometric titration elucidated the product distribution, while Raman spectroscopy, pH analysis, and conductivity measurements confirmed proton stabilization. Theoretical calculations provided insights into the reaction mechanism. Pilot-scale testing revealed the AMP-MIS system achieved a 74.2% increase in CO₂ cyclic load capacity, surpassing the conventional 30 wt % MEA system, with regeneration energy reduced from 3.667 GJ/t CO₂ to 1.885 GJ/t CO₂. This innovative strategy offers valuable guidance for advancing amine-based decarbonization technologies and reducing carbon emissions in the power industry, representing a pivotal step toward carbon neutrality.