A Study on Nozzle Structure Design and Process Optimization of RPB in the MEA Aqueous Solution CO₂ Absorption Systems

ABSTRACT This study improves a computational fluid dynamics (CFD) model for CO₂ absorption using a monoethanolamine (MEA) solution in a rotating packed bed (RPB) with porous media. It analyzes the impact of different liquid inlet nozzle designs and operational parameters on mass transfer and decarbonization performance. Results show that varying nozzle configurations have a negligible effect on the overall gas phase mass transfer coefficient and CO₂ removal rate, with deviations under 10% compared with uniform liquid distribution. However, nozzle design significantly influences temperature distribution within the packing. Increasing the number of nozzles, their axial height, and hole count helps mitigate temperature unevenness. The study identifies five nozzle structures that improve mass transfer efficiency. Moreover, increasing the liquid inlet flow rate and MEA concentration enhances mass transfer, while higher rotational speeds promote more uniform liquid distribution and reaction. This research offers valuable insights for optimizing nozzle design and operational parameters in RPB systems for mass transfer applications.