SLAB (NO3.1a)

SINTEF SLab is used to obtain the primary equilibrium (isothermal) and kinetic data needed for the evaluation of solid sorbents to be used in the concept of CO₂ capture. In addition, the infrastructure gives the opportunity to test sorbents in various lab-scale pilot rigs (pressure swing adsorption (PSA), circulating fluidized bed (CFB) and moving bed temperature swing adsorption (MBTSA - from 2021) to validate process modelling results and real material performance.

The BELSORP max instruments are volumetric/manometric instruments that are designed to measure adsorption isotherms of gases and vapours on porous adsorbents.

We offer the above-mentioned experiments to be carried out in one infrastructure. Skilled scientists and technicians are available to assist visiting researchers. Beside the infrastructure itself are more standard laboratories available where sample preparation and other tasks can be performed. A number of GC, MS and IR gas analysers are available if needed. Also, a desk with internet access will be available during the stay.

SINTEF Industry has implemented and maintains a quality management system which fulfils the requirements of the standard NS-EN ISO 9001:2008 within research and development within materials technology, advanced materials and nanotechnology, applied chemistry and biotechnology, oil and gas, and green energy and process industry.

We also do analysis of gas and vapour sorption. The data can be used for process modelling and cost estimation of CO2 capture processes.

A major part of the infrastructure contains various experimental techniques used to evaluate the performance of solid sorbents, both high surface area low temperature adsorbents and dense medium to high temperature sorbents. All techniques offered are modern and the results obtained are expected to be of high scientific quality. The experiments can be conducted under realistic conditions from ambient to high temperatures and pressures, and also under high partial pressures of steam. In addition, tests in a sulphur environment can be carried out. The equipment is run and monitored by skilled technicians/scientists. The choice of the right experiment/experimental conditions for a specific test should be established through discussion with our experts.

The uniqueness in the infrastructure lays in its completeness: it covers the whole food chain from sorbent synthesis and activation, adsorption characteristics (equilibrium and kinetics) to testing at realistic conditions in various lab scale reactors. The infrastructure is most relevant for early-stage development of sorbent-based processes but can also be relevant for optimization of a single sorbent to find optimal conditions for its utilization. The pilot is very well suited for testing new promising sorbents before they are tested in larger units. Estimates of cyclic sorption capacities, cycle times, energy requirements, column heights, and operational aspects of the sorbent can be deduced from the experimental data and process modelling.

The Max X can measure 2-3 samples at the same time, while also capable of doing pure gases like CO2 and N2. Advantages include high H2O vapour pressure up to 45 kPa, which is typically missing in literature. The Max G can measure pure component isotherms as well.