M. Sharifi Paroushi, N. Saadati, S. Abbasi Sharif, N. Mahmoudzadeh Vaziri, A. Golzary
Missouri University of Science and Technology,
United States
Keywords: life cycle assessment (LCA), carbon capture and storage (CCS), amine-based solvents, environmental impact, sustainability
Summary:
Life Cycle Assessment (LCA) plays a pivotal role in evaluating the environmental impacts of various technologies, particularly in the field of carbon capture. With global CO₂ emissions hitting a historic high of 37.4 billion tons in 2023, the need for effective, sustainable strategies to combat climate change has never been more pressing. This alarming increase highlights the critical necessity for innovations that can substantially cut carbon emissions, with CO₂ capture being a key focus of these efforts. Amine solvents are among the most widely used technologies for CO₂ capture due to their proven effectiveness. Monoethanolamine (MEA) has traditionally been the standard solvent, renowned for its high capture efficiency and widespread availability. However, its significant energy demands during regeneration and the resulting environmental footprint have prompted the exploration of alternative options. One such promising alternative, aminoethylethanolamine (AEEA), shows potential for enhanced performance with fewer environmental drawbacks. This study utilized the LCA framework to assess and compare the environmental impacts of MEA and AEEA across their entire life cycle—from production and transportation to use and disposal. Key environmental factors such as global warming potential, energy consumption, water usage, and toxicity were examined. By analyzing these metrics, the research sought to illuminate the trade-offs associated with choosing between these two solvents. The findings from the LCA revealed notable differences between the solvents. While MEA remains a reliable option for CO₂ capture, it comes with higher greenhouse gas emissions and greater energy consumption, largely due to its intensive regeneration requirements. In contrast, AEEA offers advantages such as lower regeneration energy needs and a smaller overall environmental footprint, positioning it as a more sustainable choice. However, further research is required to confirm AEEA's long-term stability and feasibility for large-scale application. This study sheds light on the benefits and challenges of MEA and AEEA, underlining the importance of refining amine-based CO₂ capture processes for both environmental and economic sustainability. The results emphasize the need for solvents that strike an optimal balance between effective carbon capture, reduced environmental impact, and commercial practicality. By addressing the trade-offs between performance and environmental consequences, this research contributes to the advancement of more efficient, sustainable CO₂ capture technologies, supporting global efforts to combat climate change.