Acid Gas Adsorption on Zeolite SSZ‐13: Equilibrium and Dynamic Behavior for Natural Gas Applications

In developing new adsorption separation processes, it is necessary to study both the equilibrium and dynamic adsorption properties of potential materials. Experimental determination of isotherms and dynamic breakthrough properties aid in the development of modeling new adsorption systems toward process development. Here, the equilibrium adsorption properties of a small-pore zeolite, Na-SSZ-13, are studied for its natural gas separation potential. Using volumetric, gravimetric, and dynamic column breakthrough adsorption techniques, the adsorption properties of CO2, CH4, C2H6, H2S, and H2O are determined. High-pressure breakthrough experiments demonstrate the mixed gas separation performance of Na-SSZ-13 in mixtures containing CO2, CH4, C2H6, and H2S. Simulations of these breakthrough experiments show that ideal adsorbed solution theory adequately describes the mixed gas adsorption modeling for this zeolite. In gas mixtures containing both CO(2)and H2S, there is an observed acid gas reaction that results in elution of carbonyl sulfide, COS.