Absorption - CCUS Terms

Description:
Absorption is a process in which a gas or vapor is taken up by a liquid or solid absorbent. In the context of Carbon Capture, Utilization, and Storage (CCUS), absorption typically refers to the capture of carbon dioxide (CO₂) from flue gases using liquid absorbents such as amines.

Explanation:
Absorption is one of the most widely used methods for capturing CO₂ emissions from industrial processes and power plants. Here’s how absorption works and its importance within the broader CCUS framework:

• Carbon Capture. Absorption processes typically use amines or other solvents that react with CO2 in a contactor vessel, capturing CO2 from industrial flue gases. This effective capture mechanism is crucial for reducing the volume of CO2 released into the atmosphere.
• Utilization. Once captured, the CO2 can be utilized in various ways depending on its purity and concentration. Potential uses include enhancing oil recovery, producing synthetic fuels, or as a feedstock in chemical manufacturing, contributing to a circular carbon economy.
• Storage. After its capture and any potential utilization, CO2 can be compressed and transported to storage sites, where it is injected into underground geological formations for long-term storage, effectively isolating it from the atmosphere.

Advantages:
Absorption helps reduce GHG emissions by capturing CO₂ from industrial processes and power plants, supporting international climate goals and commitments like the Paris Agreement, provides a cost-effective method for capturing large volumes of CO₂, reducing costs and promoting profitability of businesses and industries involved in CO₂ capture, and builds public trust and acceptance of CCUS projects through clear and transparent processes, ensuring community support and participation.

Challenges:
Implementing absorption technologies can be technically complex and require significant expertise, making sound science and engineering principles crucial for success, while securing sufficient funding and resources, navigating regulatory requirements, and overcoming market barriers are essential for the success of absorption initiatives, necessitating adequate investment and clear, supportive policies.

In summary, Absorption is essential for promoting the development and deployment of Carbon Capture, Utilization, and Storage technologies. By capturing CO₂ emissions from industrial processes and power plants, absorption helps reduce greenhouse gas emissions and contribute to global efforts to mitigate climate change.