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Here's how a typical CO2 scrubber works:

1.Gas Inlet: The gas stream containing carbon dioxide enters the CO2 scrubber system. This gas stream might be emissions from industrial processes, flue gases from combustion, or other sources containing elevated CO2 levels.
2.Scrubbing Solution: Inside the scrubber, there is a solution, often referred to as a "scrubbing solution" or "absorbent." This solution is specially formulated to react with and capture CO2 from the gas stream.
3.Contact Zone: The gas stream is passed through the scrubbing solution in a contact zone. In this zone, the CO2 dissolves into the solution through a chemical reaction.
4.Chemical Reaction: The Chemical reaction responsible for CO2 absorption depends on the type of absorbent used. Commonly used absorbents include aqueous solutions of mono ethanolamine (MEA), sodium hydroxide (Na OH), or potassium hydroxide (KOH). For example, when MEA is used, the reaction with CO2 is as follows:
CO2 + 2MEA -> MEA2CO3
The resulting product is an MEA-based carbonate solution.
5.Regeneration: After the scrubbing solution has absorbed a significant amount of CO2, it needs to be regenerated. This typically involves heating the solution to release the captured CO2, which can then be captured, compressed, and stored for other purposes or safely vented in a controlled manner.
6.Exit and Disposal or Utilization: The Treated gas stream exits the scrubber with a reduced CO2 concentration. The captured CO2 can be further processed for utilization or storage, depending on the specific application and environmental regulations.

CO2 scrubbers play a crucial role in reducing greenhouse gas emissions and mitigating climate change by capturing CO2 from industrial processes. These systems are also used in submarines and spacecraft to maintain safe levels of breathable oxygen and control CO2 levels in confined spaces.

The design and efficiency of a CO2 scrubber depend on factors such as the CO2 concentration in the gas stream, the specific application, and the required emission reduction targets. The captured CO2 can be utilized in various ways, such as in enhanced oil recovery, carbon capture and storage (CCS), or in the production of chemicals and fuels.