Design, Fabrication, and Testing Of Multi-Component Absorption Columns Via 3-D Printing For Optimized Clean Energy Processes

Through 3-dimensional computer-aided design (CAD) programming, multi-component absorption column prototypes were designed, fabricated through 3-D printing, and tested to determine mass transfer rates via countercurrent carbon dioxide and solvent flow analyses.  Modifications to the contactor trays and prototype components as well as overall part design were made in order to improve mass transfer.  Thermodynamic and fluid modeling were also used on each design through computational flow simulations to determine optimal contactor design.  Degradation analyses of the plastics used via scanning electron microscope (SEM) imaging were also performed to ensure part strength and durability.  This process supports the notion that 3-D print designs can be utilized for commercial part design and testing purposes.  This concept has the potential to save both time and money by using less valuable materials for initial testing and simulating flow through the parts computationally, rather than physically.