Modeling a biogas upgrading PSA unit with a sustainable activated carbon derived from pine sawdust. Sensitivity analysis on the adsorption of CO2 and CH4 mixtures

Pressure Swing Adsorption (PSA) is one of the implemented technologies for removing carbon dioxide in biogas streams. Different adsorbents, mostly zeolite-based, and process configurations have been patented commercially demonstrated. In this study, we developed a numerical model to successfully describe dynamic performance biomass-derived activated purification. It first step designing biomass-based capture unit within bioenergy circular economy context. Microporous pellets prepared from pine sawdust by physical activation with CO2 was adsorbent material choice. The built fittings single-component adsorption isotherms CH4 at different temperatures Langmuir-Freundlich Ideal Adsorbed Solution Theory (IAST) account multicomponent adsorption. kinetics mass transfer solid phase described Linear Driving Force (LDF). simulations were performed aid commercial software Aspen experimental data previously obtained laboratory used validation [1]. applied address separation upgrading PSA running parametric study determine influence key parameters. sensitivity analysis concluded that single stage 4-step can produce methane purity above 95% recovery around 60% configuration P/F ratios (quotients molar flows purge feed streams) between 0.67 1 an pressure 3 bar.