Absorber for direct air capture system

Abstract

An absorber (200, 700, 800, 900, 1000, 1100, 1200, 1300, 1400, 1500) for a direct air capture system (100) includes a housing (202). The housing (202) includes a first wall (204), a second wall (206) spaced apart from the first wall (204), a third wall (208), and a fourth wall (210) opposite to the third wall (208). The absorber (200, 700, 800, 900, 1000, 1100, 1200, 1300, 1400, 1500) further includes a packing assembly (224, 824, 924, 1124, 1224, 1324) disposed within the housing (202) and fluidly dividing the housing (202) into an inlet region (226) and an outlet region (228). The packing assembly (224, 824, 924, 1124, 1224, 1324) includes at least one packing bed (230, 830, 930-1, 930-2, 1130-1, 1130-2, 1130-3, 1130-4, 1230-1, 1230-2, 1230-3, 1330-1, 1330-2) extending from the third wall (208) at least partially towards the fourth wall (210). The at least one packing bed (230, 830, 930-1, 930-2, 1130-1, 1130-2, 1130-3, 1130-4, 1230-1, 1230-2, 1230-3, 1330-1, 1330-2) is disposed at an oblique angle (A1, A8, A9-1, A9-2, A11- 1, A11-2, A11-3, A11-4, A12-1, A12-2, A12-3, A13-1, A13-2) relative to the longitudinal axis (X1), such that a speed of an airflow (232) flowing through the at least one packing bed (230, 830, 930-1, 930-2, 1130-1, 1130-2, 1130-3, 1130-4, 1230-1, 1230-2, 1230-3, 1330-1, 1330-2) is lower than a speed of an inlet airflow (118).

Description

[0001] ABSORBER FOR DIRECT AIR CAPTURE SYSTEM

[0002] FIELD OF THE DISCLOSURE

[0003] The present disclosure relates to a direct air capture system, and an absorber for the direct air capture system.

[0004] BACKGROUND

[0005] Greenhouse gases, such as, carbon dioxide (CO2), are naturally occurring chemical compounds present in Earth's atmosphere. Increasing concentrations of greenhouse gases in the atmosphere has been a growing concern as they increase a risk of global warming. CO2 is a by-product of combustion of hydrocarbon fuels used in plants and factories, which are primary emission sources. Systems and methods are being implemented around the world to reduce CO2 in the atmosphere in an effort to achieve the goal of net zero emissions and reduce global warming. Direct air capture (DAC) systems is one such technology that aims to reduce the amount of CO2 in the atmosphere. DAC systems capture CC from surrounding air and create a concentrated CO2 product stream that can be sold, utilized, upgraded, or sequestered underground.

[0006] Some DAC systems use a liquid medium to capture CC from the atmosphere. Further, the liquid medium wets a packing material disposed within an absorber of the DAC system. For example, a sorbent solution may wet the packing material and ambient air may flow through the wetted packing material to absorb CO2. The sorbent solution may absorb CO2 from ambient air flowing through the wetted packing material. In order to improve an efficiency of the DAC system, it may be important to ensure a high transfer of CC from ambient air to the sorbent solution. However, conventional absorbers experience high amounts of drift and pressure losses across the absorber, which may impact an efficiency of the absorber. It may be beneficial to have an arrangement that provides improved transfer of CO2 from ambient air to the sorbent solution while efficiently utilizing a space within the absorber, utilizing lesser quantities of the sorbet solution, and minimizing pressure losses and drift. WO2022 / 238474 describes an apparatus for reversible capture of C02 from a source gas containing CO2, which has an inlet, a sorbent structure, an outlet and a flow generator. In WO2022 / 238474 the internal wall of the inlet section has a cross sectional area which is larger than the cross sectional area of the outlet section and the sorbent structure converges radially inwardly towards the outlet section. Thus the airflow in WO2022 / 238474 is accelerated as it flows through the sorbent structure to counteract the impedance created by the sorbent structure.

[0007] SUMMARY

[0008] In a first aspect, there is provided an absorber for a direct air capture (DAC) system. The absorber includes a housing. The housing includes a first wall extending along a longitudinal axis. The housing further includes a second wall spaced apart from the first wall along a vertical axis perpendicular to the longitudinal axis. The housing further includes a third wall extending between the first wall and the second wall. The housing further includes a fourth wall opposite to the third wall and extending between the first wall and the second wall. The first wall, the second wall, the third wall, and the fourth wall together define an inlet port and an outlet port opposite to the inlet port. The inlet port is configured to receive an inlet airflow and the outlet port is configured to discharge an exit airflow. The absorber further includes a packing assembly disposed within the housing and fluidly dividing the housing into an inlet region extending from the inlet port and an outlet region extending from the packing assembly. The packing assembly includes at least one packing bed extending from the third wall at least partially towards the fourth wall. The at least one packing bed is disposed at an oblique angle relative to the longitudinal axis, such that a speed of an airflow flowing through the at least one packing bed is lower than a speed of the inlet airflow.

[0009] The packing bed disposed at the oblique angle divides the housing into the inlet region and the outlet region, thereby utilizing the otherwise unused space within the housing to improve a performance of the absorber. Specifically, the inlet region is embodied as a diffuser region that decelerates the inlet airflow, such that the speed of the airflow flowing through the at least one packing bed is lower than the speed of the inlet airflow. A reduced speed of the airflow through the packing bed may increase a residence time for chemical reactions between the airflow flowing through the packing bed and the sorbent solution, which may in turn minimise drift of droplets out of the packing bed and may also increase absorption of carbon dioxide (CO2) from the airflow. Further, the outlet region is embodied as a nozzle region that accelerates the airflow exiting the packing bed, such that a speed of the exit airflow is greater than the speed of the airflow flowing through the at least one packing bed.

[0010] The absorber described herein may be cost-effective to manufacture. Furthermore, the absorber may exhibit improved performance even with lower amounts of sorbent solution, and thus the absorber described herein may be cost- effective to operate. Moreover, the absorber described herein may provide an even distribution of the inlet airflow through the packing assembly, thereby maximizing utilization of a plan area of the packing assembly.

[0011] The oblique angle of the packing bed is critical to achieving the diffuser effect of reducing the speed of the airflow, which, in turn, increases a residence time for chemical reactions between the airflow through the bed and the sorbent solution. The oblique angle operates by changing the direction of the airflow, generally via passages or channels present in the packing bed lying in a different direction to airflow from the inlet port. When the angle is too small, the diffuser effect is negligible and the speed of airflow is substantially unchanged. When the angle is too acute, the advantages of the diffuser effect are not achieved, as airflow starts to separate.

[0012] In some embodiments, the oblique angle lies between 46 degrees and 65 degrees. The oblique angle above 46 degrees may prevent unstable flow conditions and boundary layer thickening of the airflow, thereby preventing flow separations and reducing pressure drops across the packing bed. The optimum oblique angle for a packing bed depends, inter alia, on the length of the packing bed, depth of the packing bed, and the number of packing beds present in the absorber. The fundamental point is that the oblique angle of the packing bed should reduce the speed of the airflow (i.e. achieve diffusion). Thus the speed of the airflow flowing through the packing bed should be lower (e.g. about 30% lower) than the speed of the airflow at the inlet, with no flow separation occurring.

[0013] In some embodiments (e.g. when a single packing bed is present), the oblique angle is at least 57 degrees. In some embodiments, the oblique angle is equal to 57 degrees. The oblique angle of 57 degrees may prevent unstable flow conditions and boundary layer thickening of the airflow, thereby preventing flow separations and reducing pressure drop across the packing bed.

[0014] In some embodiments, the third wall defines a first side edge disposed at the inlet port and a second side edge opposite to the first side edge. Each of the first side edge and the second side edge extends along the vertical axis. The fourth wall defines a third side edge disposed at the inlet port and a fourth side edge opposite to the third side edge. Each of the third side edge and the fourth side edge extends along the vertical axis. The housing is substantially cuboid in shape, such that the at least one packing bed may be diagonally disposed therewithin.

[0015] In some embodiments, the at least one packing bed is a single packing bed that extends between the first side edge of the third wall and the fourth side edge of the fourth wall. The single packing bed that is diagonally disposed in the housing may increase a residence time for chemical reactions between the airflow flowing through the single packing bed and the sorbent solution, which may in turn minimise drift of droplets out of the packing bed and may also increase absorption of CO2 from the airflow. The angle of the packing bed produces a diffuser effect, reducing the speed of the airflow through the packing bed.

[0016] In some embodiments, the at least one packing bed is a single packing bed that extends between the second side edge of the third wall and the third side edge of the fourth wall. The single packing bed that is diagonally disposed in the housing may increase a residence time for chemical reactions between the airflow flowing through the single packing bed and the sorbent solution, which may in turn minimise drift of droplets out of the packing bed and may also increase absorption of CO2 from the airflow. As stated above, the angle of the packing bed produces a diffuser effect, reducing the speed of the airflow through the packing bed.

[0017] In some embodiments, the at least one packing bed further includes a first packing bed extending from the third wall and a second packing bed connected to and extending from the first packing bed to the fourth wall. The second packing bed is angularly disposed relative to the first packing bed. The first and second packing beds that are diagonally disposed in the housing may increase a residence time for chemical reactions between the airflow flowing through the first and second packing beds and the sorbent solution, which may in turn minimise drift of droplets out of the packing bed and may also increase absorption of CO2 from the airflow. Further, the first and second packing beds may increase the volume of the packing assembly and may also increase diffusion of the inlet airflow within the inlet region of the housing.

[0018] In some embodiments, the packing assembly further includes a third packing bed extending from the third wall towards the fourth wall and a fourth packing bed connected to and extending from the third packing bed to the fourth wall. The fourth packing bed is angularly inclined to the third packing bed. Each of the third packing bed and the fourth packing bed is spaced apart and disposed downstream of each of the first packing bed and the second packing bed. The first, second, third, and fourth packing beds that are diagonally disposed in the housing may increase a residence time for chemical reactions between the airflow flowing through the first, second, third, and fourth packing beds and the sorbent solution, which may in turn minimise drift of droplets out of the packing bed and may also increase absorption of CO2 from the airflow. Further, the first, second, third, and fourth packing beds may increase the volume of the packing assembly and may also increase diffusion of the inlet airflow within the inlet region of the housing.

[0019] In some embodiments, the at least one packing bed further includes a plurality of packing beds connected to each other and disposed in a zig-zig configuration, such that each pair of adjacent packing beds from the plurality of packing beds are angularly disposed relative to each other. The plurality of packing beds includes a first end packing bed extending from the third wall towards the fourth wall, a second end packing bed extending from the fourth wall towards the third wall, and at least one intermediate packing bed disposed between the first end packing bed and the second end packing bed. Each of the plurality of packing beds is disposed at a respective oblique angle relative to the longitudinal axis. The first, second, and third packing beds that are diagonally disposed in the housing may increase a residence time for chemical reactions between the airflow flowing through the first, second, and third packing beds and the sorbent solution, which may in turn minimise drift of droplets out of the packing bed and may also increase absorption of CO2 from the airflow. Further, the first, second, and third packing beds may increase the volume of the packing assembly and may also increase diffusion of the inlet airflow within the inlet region of the housing.

[0020] In some embodiments, the at least one packing bed is a first packing bed extending from the third wall to the fourth wall. The packing assembly further includes a second packing bed spaced apart from and disposed downstream of the first packing bed. The second packing bed extends from the third wall to the fourth wall. The first and second packing beds that are diagonally disposed in the housing may increase a residence time for chemical reactions between the airflow flowing through the first and second packing beds and the sorbent solution, which may in turn minimise drift of droplets out of the packing bed and may also increase absorption of CO2 from the airflow. Further, the first and second packing beds may increase the volume of the packing assembly and may also increase diffusion of the inlet airflow within the inlet region of the housing.

[0021] In some embodiments, wherein the absorber comprises a plurality of packing beds, each of the packing beds is disposed at an oblique angle relative to the longitudinal axis, such that a speed of an airflow flowing through each packing bed is lower than a speed of the inlet airflow.

[0022] In some embodiments, the absorber further includes a plurality of inlet guide vanes disposed upstream of the at least one packing bed along an airflow direction. Incorporation of the inlet guide vanes upstream of the at least one packing bed may increase an effectiveness of the inlet region, i.e., the diffuser region created by the at least one packing bed. The inlet guide vanes may provide a means of guiding the inlet airflow into the at least one packing bed, which may reduce pressure losses at an entrance of the packing bed, may provide additional contact surface, and may improve performance of the absorber.

[0023] In some embodiments, the absorber further includes a plurality of exit guide vanes disposed downstream of the at least one packing bed along the airflow direction. The exit guide vanes may provide a means of guiding the exit airflow out of the at least one packing bed and may reduce pressure losses at an exit side of the packing bed.

[0024] The absorber is configured to capture CO2 from air. In some embodiments, the absorber comprises at least one packing bed comprising an absorbent, preferably a liquid absorbent, which absorbs CO2 from air. The absorbent may comprise an amine group. Preferably the absorber comprises at least one packing bed comprising a liquid absorbent for CO2, e.g. a liquid absorbent comprising an amine group.

[0025] In some embodiments, the airflow through the absorber and the flow of the liquid absorbent are in cross flow.

[0026] In some embodiments, the absorber further includes a spray unit disposed upstream of the at least one packing bed along the airflow direction,. The spray unit includes one or more nozzles configured to spray the fluid in the inlet region. Incorporation of the spray unit upstream of the at least one packing bed may increase an interaction of the sorbent solution with the inlet airflow in the inlet region, and the sorbent solution will begin to absorb CO2 from the inlet airflow in the inlet region.

[0027] In some embodiments, the packing assembly further includes a first strut coupling the at least one packing bed to the third wall and a second strut coupling the at least one packing bed to the fourth wall. The first and second struts may provide structural support to the packing assembly. Each of the first and second struts may provide an aerodynamic profile, which may guide and concentrate the inlet airflow towards stable flow regions at the centre of the at least one packing bed, which may in turn reduce pressure losses. Moreover, the first and second struts may reduce usage of packing material from end regions of the packing assembly, which otherwise exhibit diminished mass transfer performance, thereby reducing a cost associated with the packing assembly.

[0028] In some embodiments, the packing assembly includes a plurality of packing portions that are spaced apart from each other to define a plurality of passages to allow a fluid flow therethrough. Specifically, the fluid includes the sorbent solution. The passages may receive the sorbent solution to wet the packing material.

[0029] In some embodiments, each packing portion is spaced apart from an adjacent packing portion by a distance. Further, each packing portion defines a thickness. The packing portions may have varying thickness and varying distances or the packing portions may have same thickness and same distances. The thicknesses and the distances may be optimized to reduce pressure losses and to improve mass flow distribution and mass transfer.

[0030] Preferably the thickness of the packing portion is at least 10 mm, more preferably at least 100 mm and still more preferably at least 200 mm. The maximum thickness of the packing portion may be at most 5000 mm, more preferably 4000 mm and still more preferably 2000 mm. Preferably the packing portion is rigid, i.e. it is not a cloth.

[0031] In some embodiments, the plurality of packing portions are similar in shape and size. The shape and size of the packing portions may be optimised to achieve reduced pressure losses, as well as to improve mass flow distribution and mass transfer.

[0032] In some embodiments, the plurality of packing portions are similar in shape and different in size. The shape and size of the packing portions may be optimised to achieve reduced pressure losses, as well as to improve mass flow distribution and mass transfer.

[0033] In some embodiments, at least two of the plurality of packing portions are different in shape and size. The shape and size of the packing portions may be optimised to achieve reduced pressure losses, as well as to improve mass flow distribution and mass transfer.

[0034] In some embodiments, the cross sectional area of the inlet port and the cross sectional area of the outlet port are substantially the same. In further embodiments, the housing has a constant cross section along its entire longitudinal axis.

[0035] In a second aspect, there is provided a direct air capture (DAC) system. The DAC system includes at least one DAC module. The at least one DAC module includes the absorber of the first aspect. The absorber may effectively absorb CO2 from the inlet airflow entering the absorber, such that the exit airflow exiting absorber has lower levels of CO2. The extracted CO2 may be collected to produce fuel for aircrafts or automobiles, ceramics, carbonated drinks, and the like.

[0036] In a further aspect, there is provided a method of capture of carbon dioxide (CO2) from a CO2 containing gas stream, the method comprising: providing a direct air capture (DAC) system as hereinbefore described; and flowing said CO2 containing gas stream through said system.

[0037] Preferably the CO2 containing gas stream is air.

[0038] In a further aspect, there is provided a method of determining the position of at least one packing bed in an absorber as hereinbefore defined, comprising: determining an oblique angle of the packing bed, relative to the longitudinal axis (X1 ) of the absorber housing wherein the packing bed is disposed, wherein said determination calculates an oblique angle that reduces the speed of the airflow flowing through said packing bed, without causing separation of said airflow.

[0039] Preferably the determination calculates the oblique angle that maximizes the reduction in the speed of the airflow flowing through said packing bed, without causing separation of the airflow.

[0040] The skilled person will appreciate that except where mutually exclusive, a feature or parameter described in relation to any one of the above aspects may be applied to any other aspect. Furthermore, except where mutually exclusive, any feature or parameter described herein may be applied to any aspect and / or combined with any other feature or parameter described herein.

[0041] BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0042] Embodiments will now be described by way of example only, with reference to the Figures, in which:

[0043] Figure 1 is a schematic block diagram illustrating a direct air capture (DAC) system, according to an embodiment of the present disclosure;

[0044] Figure 2 is a schematic perspective view of an absorber of the DAC system of Figure 1, according to an embodiment of the present disclosure;

[0045] Figure 3 is a schematic top view of the absorber of Figure 2, according to an embodiment of the present disclosure;

[0046] Figure 4A is a schematic top view of an absorber having a plurality of packing portions, according to an embodiment of the present disclosure;

[0047] Figure 4B is a schematic top view of an absorber having a plurality of packing portions, according to another embodiment of the present disclosure;

[0048] Figure 5A is a schematic top view of a packing bed having a plurality of packing portions of same shape and size, according to yet another embodiment of the present disclosure; and Figure 5B is a schematic top view of the packing bed having a plurality of packing portions of same shape and different sizes, according to an embodiment of the present disclosure;

[0049] Figure 6 is a schematic top view of the packing bed having a plurality of packing portions of different shapes and sizes, according to another embodiment of the present disclosure;

[0050] Figure 7 is a schematic top view of an absorber having a single packing bed connected to a housing of the absorber via struts, according to yet another embodiment of the present disclosure;

[0051] Figure 8 is a schematic top view of an absorber for the DAC system of Figure 1 , according to an embodiment of the present disclosure;

[0052] Figure 9 is a schematic top view of an absorber having two packing beds disposed in an angular arrangement, according to another embodiment of the present disclosure;

[0053] Figure 10 is a schematic top view of an absorber having two packing beds connected to a housing of the absorber via struts, according to yet another embodiment of the present disclosure;

[0054] Figure 11 is a schematic top view of an absorber having four packing beds, according to an embodiment of the present disclosure;

[0055] Figure 12 is a schematic top view of an absorber having three packing beds arranged in a zig-zag configuration, according to another embodiment of the present disclosure;

[0056] Figure 13 is a schematic top view of an absorber having two packing beds arranged parallel to each other, according to yet another embodiment of the present disclosure;

[0057] Figure 14 is a schematic top view of an absorber having inlet guide vanes and a spray unit upstream of a packing bed, according to an embodiment of the present disclosure;

[0058] Figure 15 is a schematic top view of an absorber having inlet guide vanes and exit guide vanes, according to another embodiment of the present disclosure;

[0059] Figure 16 illustrates an exemplary plot depicting effects of oblique angle and aspect ratio on pressure drops across the packing bed; and Figure 17 illustrates an exemplary plot depicting effects of oblique angle and angled depth reduction of the packing bed on pressure drops across the packing bed.

[0060] DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0061] Aspects and embodiments of the present disclosure will now be discussed with reference to the accompanying figures. Further aspects and embodiments will be apparent to those skilled in the art.

[0062] Figure 1 shows a schematic view illustrating a direct air capture (DAC) system 100, according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. The DAC system 100 is embodied as a system capable of separating carbon dioxide (CO2) from ambient air in order to tackle global warming.

[0063] The DAC system 100 includes at least one DAC unit 102. The DAC system 100 may include multiple DAC units disposed downstream of each other. Further, the DAC system 100 includes at least one DAC module 110. Typically, the DAC system 100 includes multiple DAC modules arranged, for example, in an array. The DAC module 110 includes an absorber 200. An inlet airflow 118 with normal or relatively high concentrations of CO2 enters the absorber 200. Further, an exit airflow 120 exits the absorber 200. The exit airflow 120 contains low or zero concentrations of CO2. The exit airflow 120 may flow towards one or more downstream DAC units (not shown) of the DAC system 100. The DAC system 100 is embodied as a liquid-absorbent type of DAC system herein. Alternatively, the DAC system 100 may be embodied as a solid-absorbent type of DAC system that is conventionally known in the art.

[0064] The DAC module 110 may further include a fan (not shown) to draw in ambient air within the absorber 200. The fan may include a plurality of blades that may be rotated by withdrawing power from an electric motor (not shown). In some embodiments, the fan may be located before (or upstream of) the absorber 200. However, in some embodiments, the fan may be located after (or downstream of) the absorber 200. Further, the absorber 200 is configured to absorb at least a portion of CO2 present in the inlet airflow 118. The absorber 200 is preferably configured to receive liquid absorbent. A sorbent solution flows through the absorber 200 and interacts with the inlet airflow 118 received within the absorber 200. The sorbent solution may include any conventional sorbent solution that may absorb CO2 from the inlet airflow 118. The sorbent solution may be carried in a solvent, for example, water, which may contain further additives that can act as catalysts, modify the solution physical properties, reduce degradation, or other desirable properties. The sorbent solution may include alkaline sorbents, such as, hydroxides or organic sorbents. Alkaline sorbents may include, for example, potassium hydroxide or calcium hydroxide. Organic sorbents may include amines or amino acids. Amines may include ethanolamine (2-aminoethanol, monoethanolamine, ETA, or MEA). Preferred sorbent solutions may include amino acids or alkali salt solutions of amino acids. The amino acids may be selected from the group consisting of alanine, arginine, asparagine, aspartic acid, cysteine, glutamic acid, glutamine, glycine, histidine, isoleucine, leucine, lysine, methionine, ornithine, phenylalanine, proline, sarcosine, selenocysteine, serine, taurine, threonine, tryptophan, tyrosine, valine and mixtures thereof. The amino acids may be in a derivatised form, e.g. the amine group may be alkylated, e.g. as a methyl amine or diethyl amine. Preferred alkali component of the amino acid salts is potassium or sodium.

[0065] In the illustrated embodiment of Figure 1 , a lean stream 124 of the sorbent solution enters the absorber 200. The term “lean stream” as used throughout the disclosure relates to a stream of the sorbent solution that has low values of CO2. The lean stream 124 contacts the inlet airflow 118 within the absorber 200 and absorbs CO2 therefrom to become a rich stream 126. The term “rich stream” as used throughout the disclosure relates to a stream of the sorbent solution that has high values of CO2. The lean stream 124 is converted to the rich stream 126 based on the absorption of CC from the inlet airflow 118 flowing through the absorber 200. Further, a recirculation stream 122 of the sorbent solution may be recirculated within the absorber 200. The recirculation stream 122 may increase an effective residence time of each portion of the lean stream 124 of the sorbent solution in the absorber 200.

[0066] Further, the DAC system 100 includes a heat exchanger 128. The rich stream 126 passes through the heat exchanger 128 to recover heat from the lean stream 124 returning from a desorber 130 of the DAC system 100. Based on the heat exchange at the heat exchanger 128, a temperature of the rich stream 126 exiting the heat exchanger 128 is slightly increased. Further, the desorber 130 receives the rich stream 126 from the heat exchanger 128 and heats it up to a temperature that causes CO2 to be released form the rich stream 126. The DAC system 100 further includes a heating means 132. The heating means 132 is embodied as a reboiler herein. The heating means 132 increases the temperature of the rich stream 126 by circulating a heated stream 133 of the sorbent solution through the desorber 130. Specifically, the heating means 132 receives a portion of the lean stream 124 exiting the desorber 130. Further, the heating means 132 heats the lean stream 124 to form the heated stream 133 that is introduced in the desorber 130. The heating means 132 may also generate steam to form vapour bubbles into which the desorbed CO2 can diffuse, leaving the lean stream 124 of the sorbent solution to return to the absorber 200 to repeat the process.

[0067] Further, a mixture 131 of the vapour and desorbed CO2 exits the desorber 130. The DAC system 100 further includes a condenser 134 in fluid communication with the desorber 130. The condenser 134 receives the mixture 131 of the vapour and desorbed CO2 from the desorber 130 and may cool the mixture 131 causing the vapour to condense leaving a CO2 product stream 135. The CO2 product stream 135 may be collected to produce fuel for aircrafts or automobiles, ceramics, carbonated drinks, and the like.

[0068] Referring now to Figure 2, the absorber 200 includes a housing 202. The housing 202 may have any size as per the operational requirements of the DAC system 100 (see Figure 1 ). The housing 202 is substantially rectangular in shape. Alternatively, the housing 202 may be square in shape. Further, the housing 202 may be made from any suitable material known in the art. The housing 202 includes a first wall 204 extending along a longitudinal axis X1 . In the illustrated embodiment of Figure 2, the first wall 204 is a top wall of the housing 202. The housing 202 further includes a second wall 206 spaced apart from the first wall 204 along a vertical axis X2 perpendicular to the longitudinal axis X1. In the illustrated embodiment of Figure 2, the second wall 206 is a bottom wall of the housing 202. The housing 202 further includes a third wall 208 extending between the first wall 204 and the second wall 206.

[0069] The housing 202 further includes a fourth wall 210 opposite to the third wall 208 and extending between the first wall 204 and the second wall 206. The first wall 204, the second wall 206, the third wall 208, and the fourth wall 210 together define an inlet port 212 and an outlet port 214 opposite to the inlet port 212. The inlet port 212 is configured to receive the inlet airflow 118 and the outlet port 214 is configured to discharge the exit airflow 120. The inlet airflow 118 and the exit airflow 120 flow substantially along the longitudinal direction X1 (i.e. , side to side) herein. Alternatively, the inlet airflow 118 and the exit airflow 120 may flow substantially along the vertical direction X2, i.e., top to bottom, without any limitations.

[0070] Further, the third wall 208 defines a first side edge 216 disposed at the inlet port 212 and a second side edge 218 opposite to the first side edge 216. Each of the first side edge 216 and the second side edge 218 extend along the vertical axis X2. Moreover, the fourth wall 210 defines a third side edge 220 disposed at the inlet port 212 and a fourth side edge 222 opposite to the third side edge 220. Each of the third side edge 220 and the fourth side edge 222 extend along the vertical axis X2.

[0071] The absorber 200 further includes a packing assembly 224 disposed within the housing 202 and fluidly dividing the housing 202 into an inlet region 226 extending from the inlet port 212 and an outlet region 228 extending from the packing assembly 224. The packing assembly 224 includes at least one packing bed 230 extending from the third wall 208 at least partially towards the fourth wall 210. The inlet region 226 extends from the inlet port 212 to the packing bed 230 and the outlet region 228 extends from the packing bed 230 to the outlet port 214.

[0072] Referring now to Figure 3, the at least one packing bed 230 is disposed at an oblique angle A1 relative to the longitudinal axis X1 , such that a speed of an airflow 232 flowing through the at least one packing bed 230 is lower than a speed of the inlet airflow 118. Specifically, the at least one packing bed 230 defines a longitudinal axis X3 extending along an angled length L1 of the packing bed 230. Further, the oblique angle A1 is defined between the longitudinal axis X3 of the packing bed 230 and the longitudinal axis X1 of the housing 202. In some embodiments, the oblique angle A1 lies between 46 degrees and 65 degrees. The oblique angle A1 above 46 degrees may prevent unstable flow conditions and boundary layer thickening of the airflow 232, thereby preventing flow separations and reducing pressure drops across the packing bed 230.

[0073] In some embodiments, the oblique angle A1 is at least 57 degrees. In some embodiments, the oblique angle A1 is equal to 57 degrees. The oblique angle A1 of 57 degrees may prevent unstable flow conditions and boundary layer thickening of the airflow 232, thereby preventing flow separations and reducing pressure drops across the packing bed 230. The packing bed 230 is rectangular in shape. Further, as the housing 202 is also rectangular in shape, the at least one packing bed 230 may be diagonally disposed therewithin.

[0074] Thus, the packing bed 230 divides the housing 202 into the inlet region 226 and the outlet region 228, thereby utilizing the otherwise unused space within the housing 202 to improve a performance of the absorber 200. Specifically, the inlet region 226 is embodied as the diffuser region that decelerates / diffuses the inlet airflow 118, such that the speed of the airflow 232 flowing through the at least one packing bed 230 is lower than the speed of the inlet airflow 118. The reduced speed of the airflow 232 through the packing bed 230 may increase a residence time for chemical reactions between the airflow 232 flowing through the packing bed 230 and the sorbent solution, which may in turn minimise drift of droplets out of the packing bed 230 and may also increase absorption of CO2 from the airflow 232. Further, the outlet region 228 is embodied as a nozzle region that accelerates the airflow 232 exiting the packing bed 230, such that the speed of the exit airflow 120 is greater than the speed of the airflow 232 flowing through the at least one packing bed 230.

[0075] The absorber 200 described herein may be cost-effective to manufacture. Further, the absorber 200 may exhibit improved performance even with lower quantities of the sorbent solution, and thus the absorber 200 described herein may be cost-effective to operate. Moreover, the absorber 200 described herein may provide an even distribution of the inlet airflow 118 across the packing assembly 224, thereby maximizing utilization of a plan area of the packing assembly 224.

[0076] In the illustrated embodiment of Figure 3, the at least one packing bed 230 is a single packing bed 230 that extends between the first side edge 216 of the third wall 208 and the fourth side edge 222 of the fourth wall 210. The packing bed 230 may be coupled to each of the first side edge 216 and the fourth side edge 222 using suitable coupling means, such as, welding, soldering, brazing, fasteners, adhesives, and the like. The single packing bed 230 that is diagonally disposed in the housing 202 may increase a residence time for chemical reactions between the airflow 232 flowing through the single packing bed 230 and the sorbent solution, which may in turn minimise drift of droplets out of the packing bed 230 and may also increase absorption of CO2 from the airflow 232. The angle of the single packing bed 230 produces a diffuser effect, reducing the speed of the airflow through the packing bed.

[0077] Further, the angled length L1 and an angled depth D1 of the packing bed 230 is decided such that the packing bed 230 has a resultant aspect ratio that is greater than 3. In one example, the angled length L1 and the angled depth D1 of the packing bed 230 is decided such that the packing bed 230 may have a resultant aspect ratio of 5. The term “aspect ratio” as used herein may be calculated by dividing the angled length L1 of the packing bed 230 by the angled depth D1 of the packing bed 230, i.e., L1 / D1. Referring now to Figure 4A, the packing bed 230 includes a packing material 234 that facilitates contact between the airflow 232 (shown in Figure 3) flowing through the packing bed 230 and the sorbent solution. Further, the packing material 234 may be made from cellulose fibres, without any limitations. The packing material 234 may have a loose fill arrangement or a structured fill arrangement. The structured fill arrangement can include an arrangement that is modular in form, such that it enables stacking of packing material in an ordered array, while the loose fill arrangement may include an arrangement that may not have a fixed shape but is instead a type of arbitrarily arranged packing material. Further, the packing material 234 may include industrial bulk packings, regular packings, perforated plate packings, and / or grille. It should be noted that the present disclosure is not limited to an arrangement of the packing material 234.

[0078] As shown in Figure 4A, in some embodiments, the at least one packing bed 230 defines a plurality of passages 237 through which the sorbent solution may be received in the packing bed 230 for wetting the packing material 234. The sorbent solution may be sprayed on the packing bed 230 using a suitable spray arrangement (not shown in Figure 4A). The sorbent solution may be introduced into the absorber 200 from a vertical direction (i.e., along the vertical axis X2 shown in Figure 2), without any limitations.

[0079] Further, in some embodiments, the at least one packing bed 230 includes a plurality of packing portions 235 that are spaced apart from each other to define the plurality of passages 237 to allow a fluid flow therethrough. Each packing portion 235 includes a rectangular shape herein. Each packing portion 235 is spaced apart from an adjacent packing portion 235 by a distance S1 , S2, ... , Si-1 , wherein i is the total number of packing portions 235. In one embodiment, at least two pairs of adjacent packing portions 235 may have different distances S1 , S2, ... , Si-1. For example, the distance S1 may be different from the distance S2. In another embodiment, each packing portion 235 may be spaced apart from an adjacent packing portion 235 by the same distance S1 , S2, ... , Si-1 , such that the packing portions 235 are equidistantly spaced apart from each other. For example, the distances S1 , S2, ... , Si-1 may be the same. In yet another embodiment, each pair of adjacent packing portions 235 may have different distances S1 , S2, ... , Si-1 , such that the packing portions 235 are arbitrarily spaced apart from each other. For example, the distances S1 , S2, ... , Si-1 may be different from each other.

[0080] Further, each packing portion 235 defines a thickness T1 , T2, ... , Ti. In one embodiment, at least two pairs of packing portions 235 may have different thicknesses T1 , T2, ... , Ti. For example, the thickness T1 may be different from thickness T2. In another embodiment, each packing portion 235 may have the same thickness T1 , T2, ... , Ti. For example, the thicknesses T1 , T2, ... , Ti may be the same. In yet another embodiment, each packing portion 235 may have different thicknesses T1 , T2,... , Ti. For example, the thicknesses T1 , T2, ... , Ti may be different from each other.

[0081] The packing portions 235 may have varying thickness T1 , T2, ... , Ti and varying distances S1 , S2, ... , Si-1 or the packing portions 235 may have same thickness T1 , T2, ... , Ti and same distances S1 , S2, ... , Si-1 . The thicknesses T1 , T2, ... , Ti and the distances S1 , S2, ... , Si-1 may be optimized to reduce pressure losses and to improve mass flow distribution and mass transfer.

[0082] Figure 4B illustrates another exemplary arrangement for the packing bed 230. In some embodiments, the at least one packing bed 230 includes a plurality of packing portions 236, 238, 240 that are spaced apart from each other to define a plurality of passages 242 to allow a fluid flow therethrough. Each packing portion 236, 238, 240 includes a rectangular shape herein.

[0083] Further, the plurality of packing portions 236, 238, 240 include the plurality of first packing portions 236. Each first packing portion 236 is spaced apart from an adjacent first packing portion 236 by a first distance E1 , E2, ... , Ej-1 , wherein j is the total number of first packing portions 236. In one embodiment, at least two pairs of adjacent first packing portions 236 may have different first distances E1 , E2, ... , Ej-1. For example, the first distance E1 may be different from the first distance E2. In another embodiment, each first packing portion 236 may be spaced apart from an adjacent first packing portion 236 by the same first distance E1 , E2, ... , Ej-1 , such that the first packing portions 236 are equidistantly spaced apart from each other. For example, the first distances E1 , E2, , Ej-1 may be the same. In yet another embodiment, each pair of adjacent first packing portions 236 may have different first distances E1 , E2,... , Ej-1 , such that the first packing portions 236 are arbitrarily spaced apart from each other. For example, the first distances E1 , E2, ... , Ej-1 may be different from each other.

[0084] Further, each first packing portion 236 defines a first thickness U1 , U2, ... , llj. In one embodiment, at least two first packing portions 236 may have different first thicknesses U1 , U2, ... , llj. For example, the first thickness U1 may be different from the first thickness U2. In another embodiment, each first packing portion 236 may have the same first thickness U1 , U2, ... , llj. For example, the first thicknesses U1 , U2, ... , llj may be the same. In yet another embodiment, each first packing portion 236 may have different first thicknesses U1 , U2, ... , llj. For example, the first thicknesses U1 , U2, ... , llj may be different from each other.

[0085] The plurality of packing portions 238, 238, 240 further include the plurality of second packing portions 238. Each second packing portion 238 is spaced apart from an adjacent second packing portion 238 by a second distance F1 , F2, ... , Fk- 1 , wherein k is the total number of second packing portions 238. In one embodiment, at least two pairs of adjacent second packing portions 238 may have different second distances F1 , F2, ... , Fk-1. For example, the second distance F1 may be different from the second distance F2. In another embodiment, each second packing portion 238 may be spaced apart from an adjacent second packing portion 238 by the same second distance F1 , F2, ... , Fk-1 , such that the second packing portions 238 are equidistantly spaced apart from each other. For example, the second distances F1 , F2, ... , Fk-1 may be the same. In yet another embodiment, each pair of adjacent second packing portions 238 may have different second distances F1 , F2, ... , Fk-1 , such that the second packing portions 238 are arbitrarily spaced apart from each other. For example, the second distances F1 , F2, ... , Fk-1 may be different from each other. Further, each second packing portion 238 defines a second thickness V1 , V2, ... , Vk. In one embodiment, at least two second packing portions 238 may have different second thicknesses V1 , V2, ... , Vk. For example, the second thickness V1 may be different from the second thickness V2. In another embodiment, each second packing portion 238 may have the same second thickness V1 , V2, ... , Vk. For example, the second thicknesses V1 , V2, ... , Vk may be the same. In yet another embodiment, each second packing portion 238 may have different second thicknesses V1 , V2, ... , Vk. For example, the second thicknesses V1 , V2, ... , Vk may be different from each other.

[0086] The plurality of packing portions 236, 238, 240 further include the plurality of third packing portions 240 disposed between the plurality of first packing portions 236 and the plurality of second packing portions 238. Each third packing portion 240 is spaced apart from an adjacent third packing portion 240 by a third distance G1 , G2, ... , GI-1 , wherein I is the total number of third packing portions 240. In one embodiment, at least two pairs of adjacent third packing portions 240 may have different third distances G1 , G2, ... , GI-1 . For example, the third distance G1 may be different from the third distance G2. In another embodiment, each third packing portion 240 may be spaced apart from an adjacent third packing portion 240 by the same third distance G1 , G2, ... , GI-1 , such that the third packing portions 240 are equidistantly spaced apart from each other. For example, the third distances G1 , G2, ... , GI-1 may be the same. In yet another embodiment, each pair of adjacent third packing portions 240 may have different third distances G1 , G2,... , GI-1 , such that the third packing portions 240 are arbitrarily spaced apart from each other. For example, the third distances G1 , G2, ... , GI-1 may be different from each other.

[0087] Further, each third packing portion 240 defines a third thickness W1 , W2, ... , Wl. In one embodiment, at least two third packing portions 240 may have different third thicknesses W1 , W2, ... , Wl. For example, the third thickness W1 may be different from the third thickness W2. In another embodiment, each third packing portion 240 may have the same third thickness W1 , W2, ... , Wl. For example, the third thicknesses W1 , W2, ... , Wl may be the same. In yet another embodiment, each third packing portion 240 may have different third thicknesses W1 , W2,... , Wl. For example, the third thicknesses W1 , W2, ... , Wl may be different from each other.

[0088] The packing portions 236, 238, 240 of varying thicknesses U1 , U2, ... , Uj, V1 , V2, ... , Vk, W1 , W2, ... , Wl and varying distances E1 , E2, ... , Ej-1 , F1 , F2, ... , Fk-1 , G1 , G2, ... , GI-1 may reduce pressure losses and improve mass flow distribution and mass transfer.

[0089] Figure 5A illustrates another exemplary arrangement for the packing bed 230. The packing bed 230 includes a plurality of packing portions 536. As shown in Figure 5A, in some embodiments, the plurality of packing portions 536 are similar in shape and size. Each packing portion 536 includes a circular shape herein. Alternatively, each packing portion 536 may include a rectangular shape, a triangular shape, a square shape, an oval shape, a tear-drop shape, a capsule shape, and the like. The present disclosure is not limited by a shape of the packing portions 536. Further, a diameter d1 of each packing portion 536 is substantially the same within a predefined tolerance range. The packing portions 536 are arranged in arrays, such that each array includes multiple packing portions 536 spaced apart from each other. Further, the packing bed 230 defines a plurality of passages 542 through which the sorbent solution may be received in the packing bed 230 for wetting the packing material 234. The shape and diameters of the packing portions 536 may be optimised to achieve reduced pressure losses, as well as to improve mass flow distribution and mass transfer.

[0090] Figure 5B illustrates yet another exemplary arrangement for the packing bed 230. The packing bed 230 includes a plurality of packing portions 538. As shown in Figure 5B, in some embodiments, the plurality of packing portions 538 are similar in shape and different in size. Specifically, each packing portion 538 includes a circular shape. It should be noted that each packing portion 538 may include a rectangular shape, a triangular shape, a square shape, an oval shape, a tear-drop shape, a capsule shape, and the like. The present disclosure is not limited by a shape of the packing portions 538. Further, the packing portions 538 have different diameters d2, d3, d4, and so on. Each packing portion 538 is spaced apart from an adjacent packing portion 538, and the packing portions 538 are arranged in an arbitrary fashion. Further, the packing bed 230 defines a plurality of passages 544 through which the sorbent solution may be received in the packing bed 230 for wetting the packing material 234. The shape and diameters of the packing portions 538 may be optimised to achieve reduced pressure losses, as well as to improve mass flow distribution and mass transfer.

[0091] Figure 6 illustrates another exemplary arrangement for the packing bed 230. The packing bed 230 includes a plurality of packing portions 636-1 , 636-2, 638-1 , 638- 2. As shown in Figure 6, in some embodiments, at least two of the plurality of packing portions 636-1 , 636-2, 638-1 , 638-2 are different in shape and size. Specifically, the packing bed 230 includes a first set of packing portions 636-1 , 636-2 that are oval shaped. It should be noted that each packing portion 636-1 , 636-2 may include a rectangular shape, a triangular shape, a square shape, a tear-drop shape, a capsule shape, and the like. Further, the first set of packing portions 636-1 , 636-2 have different sizes herein. Alternatively, each packing portion 636-1 , 636-2 may have the same size. The packing bed 230 also includes a second set of packing portions 638-1 , 638-2 that are tear-drop shaped. It should be further noted that each packing portion 638-1 , 638-2 may include a rectangular shape, a triangular shape, a square shape, an oval shape, a capsule shape, and the like. The present disclosure is not limited by a shape of the packing portions 636-1 , 636-2, 638-1 , 638-2. Further, the second set of packing portions 638-1 , 638-2 have different sizes herein. Alternatively, each packing portion 638-1 , 638- 2 may have the same size. Further, the packing bed 230 defines a plurality of passages 642 through which the sorbent solution may be received in the packing bed 230 for wetting the packing material 234. The shapes and sizes of the packing portions 636-1 , 636-2, 638-1 , 638-2 may be optimised to achieve reduced pressure losses, as well as to improve mass flow distribution and mass transfer.

[0092] Figure 7 illustrates an absorber 700, according to another embodiment of the present disclosure. The absorber 700 may be substantially similar to the absorber 200 (see Figures 2 and 3), with common components referred to by the same numerals. Further, the absorber 700 includes the housing 202 and the packing assembly 224. The packing assembly 224 includes the packing bed 230. In the illustrated embodiment of Figure 7, the packing assembly 224 further includes a first strut 746 coupling the at least one packing bed 230 to the third wall 208 and a second strut 748 coupling the at least one packing bed 230 to the fourth wall 210. The first and second struts 746, 748 may provide structural support to the packing assembly 224. Each of the first and second struts 746, 748 may provide an aerodynamic profile, which may guide and concentrate the inlet airflow 118 towards stable flow regions at the centre of the at least one packing bed 230, which may in turn reduce pressure losses. Moreover, the first and second struts 746, 748 may reduce usage of the packing material 234 (see Figures 4Ato 6) from end regions of the packing assembly 224, which otherwise exhibit diminished mass transfer performance, thereby reducing a cost associated with the packing assembly 224.

[0093] Figure 8 illustrates an absorber 800, according to another embodiment of the present disclosure. The absorber 800 may be substantially similar to the absorber 200 (see Figures 2 and 3), with common components referred to by the same numerals. Further, the absorber 800 includes the housing 202 and a packing assembly 824. The packing assembly 824 includes at least one packing bed 830 that may be similar in functionality to the packing bed 230 (see Figures 2 and 3). However, in the illustrated embodiment of Figure 8, the at least one packing bed 830 is a single packing bed 830 that extends between the second side edge 218 of the third wall 208 and the third side edge 220 of the fourth wall 210. The packing bed 830 extends along the longitudinal axis X3. The packing bed 830 may be coupled to each of the second side edge 218 and the third side edge 220 using suitable coupling means, such as, welding, soldering, brazing, fasteners, and the like. The at least one packing bed 830 is disposed at an oblique angle A8 relative to the longitudinal axis X1 , such that the speed of the airflow 232 flowing through the at least one packing bed 830 is lower than the speed of the inlet airflow 118. In some embodiments, the oblique angle A8 lies between 46 degrees and 65 degrees. In some embodiments, the oblique angle A8 is at least 57 degrees.

[0094] In some embodiments, the oblique angle A8 is equal to 57 degrees. The single packing bed 830 that is diagonally disposed in the housing 202 may increase a residence time for chemical reactions between the airflow 232 flowing through the single packing bed 830 and the sorbent solution, which may in turn minimise drift of droplets out of the packing bed 830 and may also increase absorption of CO2 from the airflow 232. The angle of the single packing bed 830 produces a diffuser effect, reducing the speed of the airflow through the packing bed.

[0095] Figure 9 illustrates an absorber 900, according to another embodiment of the present disclosure. The absorber 900 may be substantially similar to the absorber 200 (see Figures 2 and 3), with common components referred to by the same numerals. Further, the absorber 900 includes the housing 202 and a packing assembly 924. The packing assembly 924 includes at least one packing bed 930- 1 , 930-2 that may be similar in functionality to the packing bed 230 (see Figures 2 and 3). The at least one packing bed 930-1 , 930-2 extends along a longitudinal axis X3-1 , X3-2, respectively. The longitudinal axis X3-1 is inclined to the longitudinal axis X3-2. In the illustrated embodiment of Figure 9, the at least one packing bed 930-1 , 930-2 further includes a first packing bed 930-1 extending from the third wall 208 and a second packing bed 930-2 connected to and extending from the first packing bed 930-1 to the fourth wall 210. The second packing bed 930-2 is angularly disposed relative to the first packing bed 930-1. The first packing bed 930-1 extends from the first side edge 216 to the second packing bed 930-2, whereas the second packing bed 930-2 extends from the first packing bed 930-1 to the third side edge 220. In another embodiment, the first packing bed 930-1 may extend from the second side edge 218 to the second packing bed 930- 2, whereas the second packing bed 930-2 may extend from the first packing bed 930-1 to the fourth side edge 222.

[0096] Further, the first packing bed 930-1 is disposed at a first oblique angle A9-1 relative to the longitudinal axis X1 and the second packing bed 930-2 is disposed at a second oblique angle A9-2 relative to the longitudinal axis X1. In the illustrated embodiment of Figure 9, the first oblique angle A9-1 is equal to the second oblique angle A9-2. Alternatively, the first oblique angle A9-1 may be different from the second oblique angle A9-2. In some embodiments, each of the first oblique angle A9-1 and the second oblique angle A9-2 lies between 46 degrees and 65 degrees. In some embodiments, each of the first oblique angle A9-1 and the second oblique angle A9-2 are at least 57 degrees. In some embodiments, each of the first oblique angle A9-1 and the second oblique angle A9-2 is equal to 57 degrees.

[0097] The first and second packing beds 930-1 , 930-2 that are diagonally disposed in the housing 202 may increase a residence time for chemical reactions between the airflow 232 flowing through the first and second packing beds 930-1 , 930-2 and the sorbent solution, which may in turn minimise drift of droplets out of the packing bed 930-1 , 930-2 and may also increase absorption of CO2 from the airflow 232. Further, the first and second packing beds 930-1 , 930-2 may increase the volume of the packing assembly 924 and may also increase diffusion of the inlet airflow 118 within the inlet region 226 of the housing 202.

[0098] Figure 10 illustrates an absorber 1000, according to another embodiment of the present disclosure. The absorber 1000 may be substantially similar to the absorber 200 (see Figures 2 and 3), with common components referred to by the same numerals. Further, the absorber 1000 includes the housing 202 and the packing assembly 924. The packing assembly 924 includes the packing beds 930-1 , 930-2. In the illustrated embodiment of Figure 10, the packing assembly 924 further includes a first strut 1046 coupling the first packing bed 930-1 to the third wall 208 and a second strut 1048 coupling the second packing bed 930-2 to the fourth wall 210. Further, the packing assembly 924 includes a third strut 1050 that couples the first packing bed 930-1 to the second packing bed 930-2. The first, second, and third struts 1046, 1048, 1050 may provide structural support to the packing assembly 924. Each of the first, second, and third struts 1046, 1048, 1050 may provide an aerodynamic profile, which may guide and concentrate the inlet airflow 118 towards stable flow regions at the centre of the at least one packing bed 930-1 , 930-2, which may in turn reduce pressure losses. Moreover, the first, second, and third struts 1046, 1048, 1050 may reduce usage of the packing material 234 (see Figures 4A to 6) from end regions of the packing assembly 924, which otherwise exhibit diminished mass transfer performance, thereby reducing a cost associated with the packing assembly 924.

[0099] Figure 11 illustrates an absorber 1100, according to another embodiment of the present disclosure. The absorber 1100 may be substantially similar to the absorber 200 (see Figures 2 and 3), with common components referred to by the same numerals. Further, the absorber 1100 includes the housing 202 and a packing assembly 1124. The packing assembly 1124 includes at least one packing bed 1130-1 , 1130-2, 1130-3, 1130-4 that may be similar in functionality to the packing bed 230 (see Figures 2 and 3). The packing beds 1130-1 , 1130-2, 1130-3, 1130-4. In the illustrated embodiment of Figure 11 , the at least one packing bed 1130-1 , 1130-2, 1130-3, 1130-4 further includes a first packing bed 1130-1 and a second packing bed 1130-2. The first and second packing beds 1130-1 , 1130-2 extend along a longitudinal axis X3-1 , X3-2, respectively. The longitudinal axis X3-1 is inclined to the longitudinal axis X3-2. The first and second packing beds 1130-1 , 1130-2 are arranged similar to the packing beds 930-1 , 930- 2 (see Figure 9). The at least one packing bed 1130-1 , 1130-2, 1130-3, 1130-4 further includes a third packing bed 1130-3 extending from the third wall 208 towards the fourth wall 210 and a fourth packing bed 1130-4 connected to and extending from the third packing bed 1130-3 to the fourth wall 210. The third and fourth packing beds 1130-3, 1130-4 are arranged similar to the packing beds 930- 1 , 930-2. Further, the first and third packing beds 1130-1 , 1130-3 extend along the same longitudinal axis X3-1 . Moreover, the second and fourth packing beds 1130-2, 1130-4 extend along the same longitudinal axis X3-2. Thus, the fourth packing bed 1130-4 is angularly disposed relative to the third packing bed 1130- 3. Further, each of the third packing bed 1130-3 and the fourth packing bed 1130- 4 is spaced apart and disposed downstream of each of the first packing bed 1130- 1 and the second packing bed 1130-2.

[0100] The first packing bed 1130-1 is disposed at a first oblique angle A11 -1 relative to the longitudinal axis X1 and the second packing bed 1130-2 is disposed at a second oblique angle A11 -2 relative to the longitudinal axis X1 . Further, the third packing bed 1130-3 is disposed at a third oblique angle A11-3 relative to the longitudinal axis X1 and the fourth packing bed 1130-4 is disposed at a fourth oblique angle A11 -4 relative to the longitudinal axis X1. In the illustrated embodiment of Figure 11 , the third oblique angle A11 -3 is same as the fourth oblique angle A11-4. Alternatively, the third oblique angle A11 -3 may be different from the fourth oblique angle A11 -4. Further, the third oblique angle A11 -3 is same as the first oblique angle A11 -1 and the fourth oblique angle A11 -4 is same as the second oblique angle A11 -2. Alternatively, the third oblique angle A11 -3 may be different from the first oblique angle A11 -1 and the fourth oblique angle A11 -4 may be different from the second oblique angle A11 -2. In some embodiments, each of first oblique angle A11 -1 , the second oblique angle A11 -2, the third oblique angle A11-3, and the fourth oblique angle A11 -4 lies between 46 degrees and 65 degrees. In some embodiments, each of first oblique angle A11 -

[0101] 1 , the second oblique angle A11 -2, the third oblique angle A11 -3, and the fourth oblique angle A11 -4 is at least 57 degrees. In some embodiments, each of first oblique angle A11 -1 , the second oblique angle A11 -2, the third oblique angle A11 - 3, and the fourth oblique angle A11 -4 is equal to 57 degrees. However, when a plurality of packing beds are present, each of the oblique angles of the downstream packing beds may be less and a sufficient diffuser effect achieved.

[0102] The first, second, third, and fourth packing beds 1130-1 , 1130-2, 1130-3, 1130-4 that are diagonally disposed in the housing 202 may increase a residence time for chemical reactions between the airflow 232 flowing through the first, second, third, and fourth packing beds 1130-1 , 1130-2, 1130-3, 1130-4 and the sorbent solution, which may in turn minimise drift of droplets out of the packing bed 1130-1 , 1130-

[0103] 2, 1130-3, 1130-4 and may also increase absorption of CO2 from the airflow 232. Further, the first, second, third, and fourth packing beds 1130-1 , 1130-2, 1130-3, 1130-4 may increase the volume of the packing assembly 1124 and may also increase diffusion of the inlet airflow 118 within the inlet region 226 of the housing 202.

[0104] Figure 12 illustrates an absorber 1200, according to another embodiment of the present disclosure. The absorber 1200 may be substantially similar to the absorber 200 (see Figures 2 and 3), with common components referred to by the same numerals. Further, the absorber 1200 includes the housing 202 and a packing assembly 1224. The packing assembly 1224 includes at least one packing bed 1230-1 , 1230-2, 1230-3 that may be similar in functionality to the packing bed 230 (see Figures 2 and 3). However, in the illustrated embodiment of Figure 12, the at least one packing bed 1230-1 , 1230-2, 1230-3 further includes a plurality of packing beds 1230-1 , 1230-2, 1230-3 connected to each other and disposed in a zig-zig configuration, such that each pair of adjacent packing beds 1230-1 , 1230-2, 1230-3 from the plurality of packing beds 1230-1 , 1230-2, 1230- 3 are angularly disposed relative to each other.

[0105] The plurality of packing beds 1230-1 , 1230-2, 1230-3 include a first end packing bed 1230-1 extending from the third wall 208 towards the fourth wall 210. The first end packing bed 1230-1 extends along a longitudinal axis X3-1 . The plurality of packing beds 1230-1 , 1230-2, 1230-3 further include a second end packing bed 1230-2 extending from the fourth wall 210 towards the third wall 208. The second end packing bed 1230-2 extends along a longitudinal axis X3-2. Further, the longitudinal axis X3-2 may be parallel to or inclined to the longitudinal axis X3-1. The plurality of packing beds 1230-1 , 1230-2, 1230-3 further include at least one intermediate packing bed 1230-3 disposed between the first end packing bed 1230-1 and the second end packing bed 1230-2. The third packing bed 1230-3 extends along a longitudinal axis X3-3 that is inclined to the longitudinal axis X3- 1 , X3-2.

[0106] In the illustrated embodiment of Figure 12, only one intermediate packing bed 1230-3 is disposed between the first end packing bed 1230-1 and the second end packing bed 1230-2. Alternatively, two or more one intermediate packing beds (similar to the intermediate packing bed 1230-3) may be disposed between the first end packing bed 1230-1 and the second end packing bed 1230-2, based on a size and operational requirement of the absorber 1200. Further, the first end packing bed 1230-1 extends between the third wall 208 and the intermediate packing bed 1230-3. Furthermore, the intermediate packing bed 1230-3 extends between the first end packing bed 1230-1 and the second end packing bed 1230- 2. Moreover, the second end packing bed 1230-2 extends between the intermediate packing bed 1230-3 and the fourth wall 210.

[0107] Each of the plurality of packing beds 1230-1 , 1230-2, 1230-3 is disposed at a respective oblique angle A12-1 , A12-2, A12-3 relative to the longitudinal axis X1. Specifically, the first end packing bed 1230-1 is disposed at a first oblique angle A12-1 relative to the longitudinal axis X1 , the second end packing bed 1230-2 is disposed at a second oblique angle A12-2 relative to the longitudinal axis X1 , and the intermediate packing bed 1230-3 is disposed at a third oblique angle A12-3 relative to the longitudinal axis X1 . In some embodiments, the first, second, and third oblique angles A12-1 , A12-2, A12-3 may be equal to each other. In other embodiments, the first, second, and third oblique angles A12-1 , A12-2, A12-3 may be different from each other. In some embodiments, each of the first, second, and third oblique angles A12-1 , A12-2, A12-3 lies between 46 degrees and 65 degrees. In some embodiments, each of the first, second, and third oblique angles A12-1 , A12-2, A12-3 is at least 57 degrees. In some embodiments, each of the first, second, and third oblique angles A12-1 , A12-2, A12-3 is equal to 57 degrees.

[0108] The first, second, and third packing beds 1230-1 , 1230-2, 1230-3 that are diagonally disposed in the housing 202 may increase a residence time for chemical reactions between the airflow 232 flowing through the first, second, and third packing beds 1230-1 , 1230-2, 1230-3 and the sorbent solution, which may in turn minimise drift of droplets out of the packing beds 1230-1 , 1230-2, 1230-3 and may also increase absorption of CO2 from the airflow 232. Further, the first, second, and third packing beds 1230-1 , 1230-2, 1230-3 may increase the volume of the packing assembly 1224 and may also increase diffusion of the inlet airflow 118 within the inlet region 226 of the housing 202.

[0109] In some examples, in a situation where the overall box size and shape are set by other design considerations, then to decide a total number of the packing beds 1230-1 , 1230-2, 1230-3 needed to achieve a desired residence time, the aspect ratio of the packing beds 1230-1 , 1230-2, 1230-3, and / or the total number of packing beds 1230-1 , 1230-2, 1230-3 may be increased until adding another packing bed 1230-1 , 1230-2, 1230-3 would take the oblique angles A12-1 , A12-2, A12-3 over that of 57 degrees, where flow separation is likely to occur.

[0110] Figure 13 illustrates an absorber 1300, according to another embodiment of the present disclosure. The absorber 1300 may be substantially similar to the absorber 200 (see Figures 2 and 3), with common components referred to by the same numerals. Further, the absorber 1300 includes the housing 202 and a packing assembly 1324. The packing assembly 1324 includes at least one packing bed 1330-1 , 1330-2 that may be similar in functionality to the packing bed 230 (see Figures 2 and 3). The at least one packing bed 1330-1 , 1330-2 extends along the longitudinal axis X3. However, in the illustrated embodiment of Figure 13, the at least one packing bed 1330-1 , 1330-2 includes a first packing bed 1330- 1 extending from the third wall 208 to the fourth wall 210. Specifically, the first packing bed 1330-1 extends from the first side edge 216 to the fourth wall 210. The packing assembly 1324 further includes a second packing bed 1330-2 spaced apart from and disposed downstream of the first packing bed 1330-1 . Further, the first packing bed 1330-1 is disposed at the first oblique angle A13-1 relative to the longitudinal axis X1 . Moreover, the second packing bed 1330-2 is disposed at a second oblique angle A13-2 relative to the longitudinal axis X1 . In the illustrated embodiment of Figure 13, the first oblique angle A13-1 is equal to the second oblique angle A13-2, such that the first packing bed 1330-1 is parallel to the second packing bed 1330-2. Therefore, the first and second packing beds 1330- 1 , 1330-2 extend along the same longitudinal axis X3. Alternatively, the first oblique angle A13-1 may be different from the second oblique angle A13-2. In some embodiments, each of the first and second oblique angles A13-1 , A13-2 lies between 46 degrees and 65 degrees. For example A13-2 could be less than 57 degrees. In some embodiments, each of the first and second oblique angles A13- 1 , A13-2 is approximately 57 degrees. In some embodiments, each of the first and second oblique angles A13-1 , A13-2 is equal to 57 degrees. However, as stated above, when a plurality of packing beds are present, each of the oblique angles of the downstream packing beds may be less and a sufficient diffuser effect achieved. The first and second packing beds 1330-1 , 1330-2 that are diagonally disposed in the housing 202 may increase a residence time for chemical reactions between the airflow 232 flowing through the first and second packing beds 1330-1 , 1330-2 and the sorbent solution, which may in turn minimise drift of droplets out of the packing bed 1330-1 , 1330-2 and may also increase absorption of CO2 from the airflow 232. Further, the first and second packing beds 1330-1 , 1330-2 may increase the volume of the packing assembly 1324 and may also increase diffusion of the inlet airflow 118 within the inlet region 226 of the housing 202.

[0111] In some embodiments, the absorber 1300 further includes a first spray unit 1352 disposed upstream of the first packing bed 1330-1 along an airflow direction AF1 . The absorber 1300 further includes a second spray unit 1354 disposed upstream of the second packing bed 1330-2 along the airflow direction AF1. Specifically, the second spray unit 1354 is disposed between the first packing bed 1330-1 and the second packing bed 1330-2. Each of the first and second spray units 1352, 1354 include one or more nozzles 1356 configured to spray a fluid in the inlet region 226. The fluid is the sorbent solution that is configured to interact with the inlet airflow 118 in the inlet region 226 of the housing 202. Incorporation of the first and second spray units 1352, 1354 may increase an interaction of the sorbent solution with the inlet airflow 118 in the inlet region 226, and the sorbent solution will begin to absorb CO2 from the inlet airflow 118 in the inlet region 226.

[0112] It should be noted that the angled length L1 and the angled depth D1 of the packing bed 1330-1 , 1330-2 together with the oblique angle A13-1 , A13-2 may influence a total number of the packing beds 1330-1 , 1330-2 that may be associated with the packing assembly 1324. Table (1 ) below depicts exemplary number of packing beds 1330-1 , 1330-2 that can be associated with the packing assembly 1324 based on the angled length L1 and the angled depth D1 when the oblique angle A13-1 , A13-2 is fixed at 57 degrees. It should be noted that a speed of the inlet airflow 118 and the oblique angle A13-1 , A13-2 for each serial number was kept constant to generate Table (1 ).

[0113] Table d )

[0114] From table (1 ) it can be observed that, for example, if the angled depth D1 is reduced to 0.5 units thick and the oblique angle A13-1 , A13-2 is 57 degrees, approximately 3.5 (i.e. , 3 or 4) packing beds (similar to the packings beds 1330- 1 , 1330-2) may have to be disposed in series to each other to achieve the same residence time for the airflow 232. Thus, in some examples, the oblique angle A13-1 , A13-2 may be fixed and the angled length L1 and the angled depth D1 may be varied to decide the total number of the packing beds 1330-1 , 1330-2 needed. It should be noted that the oblique angles A1 , A8, A9-1 , A9-2, A11 -1 , A11 -2, A11 - 3, A11 -4, A12-1 , A12-2, A12-3, A13-1 , A13-2 depicted in Figures 2 to 13 are not drawn to scale due to restricted page dimensions.

[0115] Figure 14 illustrates an absorber 1400, according to another embodiment of the present disclosure. The absorber 1400 may be substantially similar to the absorber 200 (see Figures 2 and 3), with common components referred to by the same numerals. Further, the absorber 1400 includes the housing 202 and the packing assembly 224. The packing assembly 224 includes the packing bed 230. The absorber 1400 further includes a plurality of inlet guide vanes 1458 disposed upstream of the at least one packing bed 230 along the airflow direction AF1 . In one example, the inlet guide vanes 1458 may be integral with the packing bed 230. In another embodiment, the inlet guide vanes 1458 may include a separate component disposed upstream of the packing bed 230.

[0116] Incorporation of the inlet guide vanes 1458 upstream of the at least one packing bed 230 may increase an effectiveness of the inlet region 226, i.e. , the diffuser region that is created by the packing bed 230. The inlet guide vanes 1458 may provide a means of guiding the inlet airflow 118 into the at least one packing bed 230, which may reduce pressure losses at an entrance side of the packing bed 230, may provide additional contact surface, and may improve performance of the absorber 1400.

[0117] In some embodiments, the absorber 1400 further includes a spray unit 1452 disposed upstream of the at least one packing bed 230 along the airflow direction AF1 . The spray unit 1452 includes one or more nozzles 1456 configured to spray the fluid in the inlet region 226. The fluid is the sorbent solution that is configured to interact with the inlet airflow 118 in the inlet region 226 of the housing 202. Incorporation of the spray unit 1452 upstream of the at least one packing bed 230 may increase an interaction of the sorbent solution with the inlet airflow 118 in the inlet region 226, and the sorbent solution will begin to absorb CO2 from the inlet airflow 118 in the inlet region 226.

[0118] Figure 15 illustrates an absorber 1500, according to another embodiment of the present disclosure. The absorber 1500 may be substantially similar to the absorber 200 (see Figures 2 and 3), with common components referred to by the same numerals. Further, the absorber 1500 includes the housing 202 and the packing assembly 224. The packing assembly 224 includes the packing bed 230. The absorber 1500 further includes the plurality of inlet guide vanes 1458 disposed upstream of the at least one packing bed 230 along the airflow direction AF1. The absorber 1500 further includes a plurality of exit guide vanes 1560 disposed downstream of the at least one packing bed 230 along the airflow direction AF1 . In one example, the exit guide vanes 1560 may be integral with the packing bed 230. In another embodiment, the exit guide vanes 1560 may include a separate component disposed downstream of the packing bed 230. The exit guide vanes 1560 may provide a means of guiding the exit airflow 120 out of the at least one packing bed 230 and may reduce pressure losses at an exit side of the packing bed 230.

[0119] Figure 16 illustrates an exemplary plot 1600 depicting effects of the oblique angle A1 (see Figure 3) and the aspect ratio on pressure drops across the packing bed 230 (see Figures 2 and 3). Specifically, the plot 1600 depicts reduction in pressure drops across the packing bed 230 based on the disposition of the packing bed 230 at the oblique angle and variation in the aspect ratio. Various values for aspect ratios are marked on the X-axis and various values for percentage change in pressure drops across the packing bed 230 are marked along the Y-axis. Further, the plot 1600 depicts curves C1 , C2, C3, C4, C5, C6, C7, C8 that are generated at oblique angles A1 equal to 46 degrees, 50 degrees, 55 degrees, 57 degrees, 60 degrees, 65 degrees, 70 degrees, and 80 degrees, respectively.

[0120] From the plot 1600, it can be concluded that, based on a nominal pressure loss per metre depth of the packing bed 230, smaller values of the oblique angles A1 may provide minimum pressure drops across the packing bed 230. However, smaller values of the oblique angle A1 may lead to increased separation. For example, the oblique angle A1 lesser than 46 degrees may lead to separation. Thus, the oblique angle A1 may be decided so as to achieve reduced pressure drops while avoiding separation, which may be achieved when the oblique angle A1 is above or about 57 degrees. Also, higher pressure drops can be observed at lower aspect ratios. Further, an increase in the aspect ratio, for example, when aspect ratio is greater than 3, may translate to minimum pressure drops across the packing bed 230 for most oblique angles A1 .

[0121] Figure 17 illustrates an exemplary plot 1700 depicting effects of the oblique angle A1 (see Figure 3) and the angled depth D1 (see Figure 3) on pressure drops across the packing bed 230 (see Figures 2 and 3). Specifically, the plot 1700 depicts reduction in pressure drops across the packing bed 230 based on the disposition of the packing bed 230 at the oblique angle and reduction in the angled depth D1. Various values for percentage reduction in the angled depth D1 (see Figure 3) of the packing bed 230 are marked on the X-axis and various values for percentage change in pressure drops across the packing bed 230 are marked along the Y-axis. Further, the plot 1700 depicts curves C9, C10, C11 , C12, C13, C14, C15, C16 that are generated at oblique angles A1 equal to 46 degrees, 50 degrees, 55 degrees, 57 degrees, 60 degrees, 65 degrees, 70 degrees, and 80 degrees, respectively. From the plot 1700, it can be concluded that suggested bands for reduction in the angled depth D1 of the packing bed 230 need to be greater than 25% in magnitude to minimize pressure drops. However, minimum pressure drops may be better observed when reduction in the angled depth D1 of the packing bed 230 is greater than 50%.

[0122] Further, as the oblique angle A1 increases above 46 degrees, the risk of separation may reduce. Moreover, as the oblique angle A1 reduces below 70 degrees, the pressure drop may decrease. Thus, the oblique angle A1 may be decided so as to achieve reduced pressure drops while avoiding separation, which may be achieved when the oblique angle A1 is above or about 57 degrees. Further, the oblique angle A1 of 60 degrees is better than the oblique angle A1 of 70 degrees, the oblique angle A1 of 50 degrees is better than the oblique angle A1 of 46 degrees, and so on. In some examples, the oblique angle A1 may be equal to 46 degrees, 50 degrees, or 54 degrees at the lower end, and the oblique angle A1 could be 75 degrees, 70 degrees, 65 degrees, 60 degrees, or 57 degrees at the upper end.

[0123] The invention also relates to a method of determining the position of at least one packing bed in an absorber as hereinbefore defined, comprising: determining an oblique angle of the packing bed, relative to the longitudinal axis (X1 ) of the absorber housing wherein the packing bed is disposed, wherein said determination calculates an oblique angle that reduces the speed of the airflow flowing through said packing bed, without causing separation of said airflow. Preferably the determination calculates the oblique angle that maximizes the reduction in the speed of the airflow flowing through said packing bed, without causing separation of the airflow.

[0124] One parameter which is often used as a measure of the amount of diffusion in compressors is the de Haller number. It has been discovered the same principle can be applied herein. For the absorber, the de Haller number is defined as the ratio (v2 / v1 ) of the airflow speed through the packing bed, v2, and the airflow speed at the inlet, v1 , wherein the airflow speed through the packing bed is approximately v1 *sin(A), wherein A is the oblique angle. Generally, the de Haller number should be greater than 0.72 to avoid flow separation, which would cause increased pressure losses. Hence, based on this model, the oblique angle needed to maximise the reduction in the speed of the airflow flowing through said packing bed, without causing separation of the airflow can be calculated. As set out herein, an angle of 46 degrees to 65 degrees is generally preferred.

[0125] Thus a preferred method of determining the position of at least one packing bed in an absorber comprises determining the angle which gives a value for the de Haller number of 0.72 or greater. The de Haller number is defined as v2 / v1 , wherein v2 is the airflow speed through the packing bed, and v1 is the airflow speed at the inlet. A more preferred method of determining the position of at least one packing bed in an absorber comprises determining the angle which gives a value for the de Haller number of 0.72-0.91 , still more preferably 0.84,

[0126] Preferably the angle (A) is calculated according to the equation: de Haller number = v2 / v1 , wherein v2 is the airflow speed through the packing bed, and v1 is the airflow speed at the inlet. Optionally the airflow speed through the packing bed may be approximated as v2 = v1 * sin(A), where A is the angle. The de Haller number of 0.72 gives an angle of 46 degrees. The de Haller number of 0.91 gives an angle of 65 degrees. The de Haller number of 0.84 gives an angle of 57 degrees.

[0127] It will be understood that the invention is not limited to the embodiments abovedescribed and various modifications and improvements can be made without departing from the concepts described herein. Except where mutually exclusive, any of the features may be employed separately or in combination with any other features and the disclosure extends to and includes all combinations and subcombinations of one or more features described herein.

Claims

CLAIMS:

1. An absorber (200, 700, 800, 900, 1000, 1100, 1200, 1300, 1400, 1500) for a direct air capture (DAC) system (100), the absorber (200, 700, 800, 900, 1000, 1100, 1200, 1300, 1400, 1500) comprising: a housing (202) including: a first wall (204) extending along a longitudinal axis (X1 ); a second wall (206) spaced apart from the first wall (204) along a vertical axis (X2) perpendicular to the longitudinal axis (X1 ); a third wall (208) extending between the first wall (204) and the second wall (206); and a fourth wall (210) opposite to the third wall (208) and extending between the first wall (204) and the second wall (206), wherein the first wall (204), the second wall (206), the third wall (208), and the fourth wall (210) together define an inlet port (212) and an outlet port (214) opposite to the inlet port (212), and wherein the inlet port (212) is configured to receive an inlet airflow (118) and the outlet port (214) is configured to discharge an exit airflow (120); and a packing assembly (224, 824, 924, 1124, 1224, 1324) disposed within the housing (202) and fluidly dividing the housing (202) into an inlet region (226) extending from the inlet port (212) and an outlet region (228) extending from the packing assembly (224, 824, 924, 1124, 1224, 1324), the packing assembly (224, 824, 924, 1124, 1224, 1324) including at least one packing bed (230, 830, 930-1 , 930-2, 1130-1 , 1130-2, 1130-3, 1130-4, 1230-1 , 1230-2, 1230-3, 1330-1 , 1330-2) extending from the third wall (208) at least partially towards the fourth wall (210), wherein the at least one packing bed (230, 830, 930-1 , 930-2, 1130-1 , 1130-2, 1130-3, 1130-4, 1230-1 , 1230-2, 1230-3, 1330-1 , 1330-2) is disposed at an oblique angle (A1 , A8, A9-1 , A9-2, A11 -1 , A11 -2, A11 -3, A11 -4, A12-1 , A12-2, A12-3, A1 3-1 , A13-2) relative to the longitudinal axis (X1 ), such that a speed of an airflow (232) flowing through the at least one packing bed (230, 830, 930-1 , 930-2, 1130-1 , 1130-2, 1130-3, 1130-4, 1230-1 , 1230-2, 1230-3, 1330- 1 , 1330-2) is lower than a speed of the inlet airflow (118).

2. The absorber (200, 700, 800, 900, 1000, 1100, 1200, 1300, 1400, 1500) of any one of claim 1 , wherein the oblique angle (A1 , A8, A9-1 , A9-2, A11 -1 , A11 -2, A11 -3, A11 -4, A12-1 , A12-2, A12-3, A13-1 , A13-2) lies between 46 degrees and 65 degrees.

3. The absorber (200, 700, 800, 900, 1000, 1100, 1200, 1300, 1400, 1500) of claim 2, wherein the oblique angle (A1 , A8, A9-1 , A9-2, A11 -1 , A11 -2, A11 - 3, A11 -4, A12-1 , A12-2, A12-3, A13-1 , A13-2) is equal to 57 degrees.

4. The absorber (200, 700, 800, 900, 1000, 1100, 1200, 1300, 1400, 1500) of claim 1 , wherein the third wall (208) defines a first side edge (216) disposed at the inlet port (212) and a second side edge (218) opposite to the first side edge (216), wherein each of the first side edge (216) and the second side edge (218) extends along the vertical axis (X2), wherein the fourth wall (210) defines a third side edge (220) disposed at the inlet port (212) and a fourth side edge (224) opposite to the third side edge (220), and wherein each of the third side edge (220) and the fourth side edge (224) extends along the vertical axis (X2).

5. The absorber (200) of claim 4, wherein the at least one packing bed (230) is a single packing bed (230) that extends between the first side edge (216) of the third wall (208) and the fourth side edge (224) of the fourth wall (210).

6. The absorber (800) of claim 4, wherein the at least one packing bed (830) is a single packing bed (830) that extends between the second side edge (218) of the third wall (208) and the third side edge (220) of the fourth wall (210).

7. The absorber (900, 1100) of claim 1 , wherein the at least one packing bed (930-1 , 930-2, 1130-1 , 1130-2) further includes a first packing bed (930-1 , 1130-1 ) extending from the third wall (208) and a second packing bed (930-2, 1130-2) connected to and extending from the first packing bed (930-1 , 1130-1 ) to the fourth wall (210), and wherein the second packing bed (930- 2, 1130-2) is angularly disposed relative to the first packing bed (930-1 , 1130-1 ).

8. The absorber (1100) of claim 7, wherein the packing assembly (1124) further includes a third packing bed (1130-3) extending from the third wall (208) towards the fourth wall (210) and a fourth packing bed (1130-4) connected to and extending from the third packing bed (1130-3) to the fourth wall (210), wherein the fourth packing bed (1130-4) is angularly inclined to the third packing bed (1130-3), and wherein each of the third packing bed (1130-3) and the fourth packing bed (1130-4) is spaced apart and disposed downstream of each of the first packing bed (1130-1 ) and the second packing bed (1130-2).

9. The absorber (1200) of claim 1 , wherein the at least one packing bed (1230-1 , 1230-2, 1230-3) further includes a plurality of packing beds (1230-1 , 1230-2, 1230-3) connected to each other and disposed in a zig-zig configuration, such that each pair of adjacent packing beds (1230-1 , 1230-2, 1230-3) from the plurality of packing beds (1230-1 , 1230-2, 1230-3) are angularly disposed relative to each other, wherein the plurality of packing beds (1230-1 , 1230-2, 1230-3) includes a first end packing bed (1230-1 ) extending from the third wall (208) towards the fourth wall (210), a second end packing bed (1230-2) extending from the fourth wall (210) towards the third wall (208), and at least one intermediate packing bed (1230-3) disposed between the first end packing bed (1230-1 ) and the second end packing bed (1230-2), and wherein each of the plurality of packing beds (1230-1 , 1230-2, 1230-3) is disposed at a respective oblique angle (A12-1 , A12-2, A12-3) relative to the longitudinal axis (X1 ).

10. The absorber (1300) of claim 1 , wherein the at least one packing bed (1330- 1 ) is a first packing bed (1330-2) extending from the third wall (208) to the fourth wall (210), wherein the packing assembly (1324) further includes a second packing bed (1330-2) spaced apart from and disposed downstreamof the first packing bed (1330-1 ), and wherein the second packing bed (1330-2) extends from the third wall (208) to the fourth wall (210).11 . The absorber (1400, 1500) of any one of claims 1 to 10, further comprising a plurality of inlet guide vanes (1458) disposed upstream of the at least one packing bed (230) along an airflow direction (AF1 ).

12. The absorber (1500) of any one of claims 1 to 11 , further comprising a plurality of exit guide vanes (1560) disposed downstream of the at least one packing bed (230) along the airflow direction (AF1 ).

13. The absorber (1300, 1400) of any one of claims 1 to 12, further comprising a spray unit (1352, 1354, 1452) disposed upstream of the at least one packing bed (1330-1 , 1330-2, 230) along the airflow direction (AF1 ), the spray unit (1352, 1354, 1452) including one or more nozzles (1356, 1456) configured to spray a fluid in the inlet region (226).

14. The absorber (700) of any one of claims 1 to 13, wherein the packing assembly (224) further includes a first strut (746) coupling the at least one packing bed (230,) to the third wall (208) and a second strut (748) coupling the at least one packing bed (230) to the fourth wall (210).

15. The absorber (200) of any one of claims 1 to 14, wherein the at least one packing bed (230) includes a plurality of packing portions (235, 236, 238, 240, 536, 538, 636-1 , 636-2, 638-1 , 638-2) that are spaced apart from each other to define a plurality of passages (237, 242, 542, 544, 642) to allow a fluid flow therethrough.

16. The absorber (200) of claim 15, wherein each packing portion (235) is spaced apart from an adjacent packing portion (235) by a distance (S1 , S2, ... , Si-1 ), and wherein each packing portion (235) defines a thickness (T1 , T2, ... , Ti).

17. The absorber (200) of claim 15, wherein the plurality of packing portions (536) are similar in shape and size.

18. The absorber (200) of claim 15, wherein the plurality of packing portions (538) are similar in shape and different in size.

19. The absorber (200) of claim 15, wherein at least two of the plurality of packing portions (636-1 , 636-2, 638-1 , 638-2) are different in shape and size.

20. A direct air capture (DAC) system (100) comprising at least one DAC module (102), wherein the at least one DAC module (102) includes the absorber (200, 700, 800, 900, 1000, 1100, 1200, 1300, 1400, 1500) of any one of claims 1 to 19.

21. A method of capture of carbon dioxide (CO2) from a CO2 containing gas stream, the method comprising: providing a direct air capture (DAC) system (100) as claimed in claim 20; and flowing said CO2 containing gas stream through said system.

22. A method as claimed in claim 21 , wherein said CO2 containing gas stream is air.

23. A method of determining the position of at least one packing bed in an absorber as defined in any one of claims 1 to 19, comprising: determining an oblique angle of the packing bed, relative to the longitudinal axis (X1 ) of the absorber housing, wherein the packing bed is disposed, wherein said determination calculates an oblique angle that reduces the speed of the airflow flowing through said packing bed, without causing separation of said airflow.

24. A method as claimed in claim 23, wherein said determination calculates the oblique angle that maximizes the reduction in the speed of the airflow flowing through said packing bed, without causing separation of the airflow.

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