IL-DMEE Nonwater System for CO2 Capture: Absorption Performance and Mechanism Investigations

Dual amino functionalized ionic liquid tetramethylammonium lysinate ([N1111][Lys]) was synthesized and mixed with 2-[2-(dimethylamino)ethoxy]ethanol (DMEE) to obtain a series of nonwater absorbents for CO2 capture. The density and viscosity of the IL hybrids were measured. Using dual-vessel absorption system, CO2 absorption capacity and rate were investigated over a wide range of IL mass fractions (5–100%) to evaluate the influence of DMEE content, and 20% was chosen for further studies including influences of temperature and regeneration performances. Mass transfer coefficients with constant absorption area were calculated from apparent absorption rate constant. Fourier transform infrared (FT-IR) and 13C NMR spectra were applied to indicate the absorption process and mechanism. This new nonwater mixed system was proved to have high absorption capacities and prominent regeneration efficiency under mild conditions (80 °C).