Control device, control method, and acid gas adsorption system

Abstract

A management device 30 is provided with: a concentration acquisition unit 31 that acquires a first concentration, which is the concentration of an acidic gas when a gas containing the acidic gas is introduced into an acidic gas adsorption device for adsorbing an acidic gas, and a second concentration, which is the concentration of the acidic gas after being processed by the acidic gas adsorption device; a recovery amount calculation unit 32 that calculates, on the basis of the first concentration and the second concentration, a recovery amount of the acidic gas adsorbed by the acidic gas adsorption device; and a management unit 33 that performs management for replacing the acidic gas adsorption device on the basis of a regeneration period of the acidic gas adsorption device determined on the basis of the calculated recovery amount. With this configuration, the present invention provides a management device, a management method, and an acidic gas adsorption system that make it possible to easily manage an acidic gas adsorption device and reduce costs when the acidic gas adsorption device is used to separate and recover an acidic gas.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present invention relates to a management device, a management method, and an acid gas adsorption system. In particular, the present invention relates to a management device that manages an acid gas adsorption device that adsorbs acid gas, and the like.

Background Art

[0002] In recent years, in order to reduce the environmental load, efforts have been made to separate and recover acid gas contained in the atmosphere. As such acid gas, mainly carbon dioxide (CO2), which causes global warming, can be mentioned. And, in order to separate and recover acid gas such as carbon dioxide, an acid gas adsorption device that adsorbs acid gas may be used.

[0003] In Patent Document 1, an absorbent structure for CO2 capture is disclosed. This absorbent structure includes a honeycomb substrate having a plurality of partition walls extending axially from an inlet end to an outlet end, thereby forming a plurality of flow paths. The honeycomb substrate includes a solidified powder component and a binder. Further, the absorbent structure includes functional structural unit groups dispersed throughout the powder component of the partition walls of the honeycomb substrate. The functional structural unit groups are located within and on the partition walls such that when a gas stream containing CO2 flows through the flow path from the inlet end to the outlet end, the functional structural unit groups form a coordination bond that forms CO2 with carbonate, bicarbonate, carbamate, or other coordination or ionic compounds to absorb CO2.

Prior Art Documents

Patent Documents

[0004]

Patent Document 1

Summary of the Invention

Problems to be Solved by the Invention

[0005] When separating and recovering acidic gases using an acidic gas adsorption device, the device may be regenerated and reused to reduce costs. However, if the acid gas recovery company is responsible for managing the regeneration timing, the replacement costs tend to be high due to the increased labor required for replacement for reuse. In addition, the management costs for tracking the operating period of the acid gas adsorption equipment tend to be high. The present invention aims to provide a management device, a management method, and an acid gas adsorption system that facilitate the management of an acid gas adsorption device and reduce costs when separating and recovering acid gases using an acid gas adsorption device. [Means for solving the problem]

[0006] To solve the above problems, the present invention provides a control device comprising: a concentration acquisition unit that acquires a first concentration, which is the concentration of the acidic gas when a gas containing the acidic gas is introduced into an acidic gas adsorption device that adsorbs acidic gases, and a second concentration, which is the concentration of the acidic gas after treatment by the acidic gas adsorption device; a recovery amount calculation unit that calculates the amount of acidic gas adsorbed by the acidic gas adsorption device based on the first and second concentrations; and a control unit that performs management to replace and regenerate the acidic gas adsorption device based on the regeneration timing of the acidic gas adsorption device determined based on the calculated recovery amount.

[0007] Furthermore, the present invention provides a management method that involves obtaining a first concentration, which is the concentration of the acidic gas when a gas containing the acidic gas is introduced into an acidic gas adsorption device that adsorbs acidic gases, and a second concentration, which is the concentration of the acidic gas after treatment by the acidic gas adsorption device. Based on the first and second concentrations, the amount of acidic gas adsorbed by the acidic gas adsorption device is calculated, and based on the regeneration timing of the acidic gas adsorption device determined based on the calculated amount of recovered acidic gas, the acidic gas adsorption device is replaced and regenerated.

[0008] Furthermore, the present invention relates to an acid gas adsorption system comprising: an acid gas adsorption device for adsorbing acid gases; a concentration measuring means for measuring a first concentration, which is the concentration of the acid gas when the acid gas is introduced into the acid gas adsorption device, and a second concentration, which is the concentration of the acid gas after treatment by the acid gas adsorption device; and a management device for managing the acid gas adsorption device based on the first and second concentrations. The management device comprises a concentration acquisition unit for acquiring the first and second concentrations from the concentration measuring means; a recovery amount calculation unit for calculating the amount of acid gas recovered by the acid gas adsorption device based on the first and second concentrations; and a management unit for managing the replacement and regeneration of the acid gas adsorption device based on the regeneration timing of the acid gas adsorption device determined based on the calculated recovery amount. [Effects of the Invention]

[0009] When separating and recovering acidic gases using an acidic gas adsorption device, it is possible to provide a management device, management method, and acidic gas adsorption system that facilitates the management of the acidic gas adsorption device and reduces costs. [Brief explanation of the drawing]

[0010] [Figure 1] This diagram illustrates the CCUS cycle. [Figure 2] This diagram shows a CO2 adsorption system for operating and managing a DAC system. [Figure 3] (a) is a diagram showing the configuration of the DAC system. (b) is a cross-sectional view of the CO2 adsorption device, showing its structure. (c) is a diagram explaining the operation of the DAC system. [Figure 4] This is a block diagram showing the functional configuration of the control device. [Figure 5] This diagram shows the data structure when data is stored in the memory unit. [Figure 6] This is a conceptual diagram illustrating the management method for a CO2 adsorption device. [Figure 7] This diagram illustrates the regeneration timing of the CO2 adsorption device. [Figure 8] It is a diagram showing a table representing the regeneration history of a CO₂ adsorption device. [Figure 9] (a) to (b) are diagrams showing an example of a regular report. [Figure 10] It is a flowchart explaining the operation of a CO₂ adsorption system.

Embodiments for Carrying Out the Invention

[0011] Hereinafter, embodiments of the present invention will be described in detail with reference to the accompanying drawings. As a representative example of efforts to separate and recover carbon dioxide, a carbon dioxide capture, utilization, and storage (CCUS) cycle is known. In the CCUS cycle, the separated and recovered carbon dioxide is reused to realize a carbon-neutral society through the recycling of carbon dioxide.

[0012] <Explanation of the CCUS Cycle> FIG. 1 is a diagram showing the CCUS cycle S. In the illustrated CCUS cycle S, carbon dioxide discharged from a waste treatment plant, a thermal power plant S1, etc. is separated and recovered by a CO₂ separation membrane (CO₂ separation and recovery). Also, carbon dioxide present in the atmosphere is adsorbed by a DAC (Direct Air Capture) system S2 (atmospheric CO₂ adsorption).

[0013] The recovered carbon dioxide is, for example, stored underground (CO2 geological storage). Also, for example, in oil well S3, it is used to recover crude oil by using EOR (Enhanced Oil Recovery). That is, carbon dioxide is injected underground, and thereby the crude oil is flushed towards oil well S3. This is also called the carbon dioxide injection method. At this time, the injected carbon dioxide is taken out from underground together with the crude oil, and at this time, a carbon dioxide (CO2) separation membrane is used to separate the crude oil and carbon dioxide. The separated carbon dioxide is used to be injected underground again.

[0014] Also, the recovered carbon dioxide is, for example, supplied to a SOEC (Solid Oxide Electrolysis Cell) S4 together with water, and carbon monoxide (CO) and hydrogen (H2) are generated by electrolysis (water·CO2 electrolysis). Then, using this hydrogen and the hydrogen contained in natural gas·biogas, carbon dioxide and hydrogen are synthesized (methanation, methanol synthesis) in a methanation plant or a methanol production plant S5 to produce methane (CH4) or methanol (CH3OH) (CO2 recycling). The produced methane or methanol can be used as a raw material for fuels and chemical products. And the waste is, for example, incinerated at a waste treatment plant·thermal power plant S1, and at this time, the carbon dioxide discharged can be recycled in the CCUS cycle S. Also, when used as a fuel, for example, it is adsorbed by a forest or a DAC system S2.

[0015] <Description of the CO2 adsorption system 1> FIG. 2 is a diagram showing the CO2 adsorption system 1 for operating and managing the DAC system S2. The CO2 adsorption system 1 is an example of an acid gas adsorption system. The CO2 adsorption system 1 includes three DAC systems S2, terminal devices 20A, 20B, and 20C owned by CO2 collectors K1, K2, and K3 who operate the respective DAC systems S2, a terminal device 21 owned by a CO2 adsorption device regenerator R1 who regenerates the CO2 adsorption device 12 (see FIG. 3) of the DAC system S2, and a management device 30 that manages the entire CO2 adsorption system 1, which are connected via a network 40. In the present embodiment, the CO2 collectors K1, K2, and K3 are examples of acid gas collectors. Also, the CO2 adsorption device regenerator R1 is an example of an acid gas adsorption device regenerator. Here, the number of CO2 collectors K1, K2, and K3 is three, and the corresponding DAC systems S2 and terminal devices 20A, 20B, and 20C are also three. However, regarding these numbers, as long as the number is one or more, it can be any number. Note that one CO2 collector may operate a plurality of DAC systems S2. Here, the number of CO2 adsorption device regenerators R1 is one, but it may be plural. Hereinafter, when the CO2 collectors K1, K2, and K3 are not distinguished from each other, they may simply be referred to as "CO2 collectors", and the CO2 adsorption device regenerator R1 may simply be referred to as the "CO2 adsorption device regenerator". Also, when the terminal devices 20A, 20B, and 20C are not distinguished from each other, they may simply be referred to as "terminal device 20".

[0016] The terminal device 20 is a device for a CO2 collector to grasp the operating state of the DAC system S2. In the terminal device 20, although details will be described later, a periodic report indicating the amount of carbon dioxide recovered is displayed. This periodic report is created by the management device 30 and transmitted to the terminal device 20. By viewing this periodic report, the CO2 collector can grasp the amount of carbon dioxide recovered by the DAC system S2. The terminal device 21 is a device for a CO2 adsorption device regenerator to grasp the regeneration timing of the CO2 adsorption device 12. In the terminal device 21, although details will be described later, a notification regarding the regeneration timing is displayed from the management device 30. Terminal devices 20 and 21 are computer devices such as general-purpose personal computers (PCs), mobile computers, mobile phones, smartphones, and tablets. These terminal devices 20 and 21 run various application software under the management of an OS (Operating System).

[0017] The control device 30, as will be described in more detail later, is a server computer that manages the entire CO2 adsorption system 1. Although the illustrated management device 30 is shown as a single unit, its functions may be implemented using multiple server computers.

[0018] The terminal devices 20, 21 and the management device 30 are equipped with a processor such as a CPU (Central Processing Unit) as a means of calculation, and main memory as a means of storage. Here, the processor executes various software such as the OS (operating system) and applications (application software). The main memory is a storage area that stores various software and data used for its execution. Furthermore, the terminal devices 20, 21 and the management device 30 are equipped with a communication interface (hereinafter referred to as "communication I / F") for communicating with the outside world, a display mechanism consisting of video memory and a display, and an input mechanism such as input buttons, a touch panel, and a keyboard. In addition, the terminal devices 20, 21 and the management device 30 are equipped with storage as an auxiliary storage device. The storage is, for example, an HDD (Hard Disk Drive) or an SSD (Solid State Drive).

[0019] The network 40 is a communication means used for information communication among the DAC system S2, the terminal devices 20 and 21, and the management device 30, and is, for example, the Internet, a LAN (Local Area Network), or a WAN (Wide Area Network). The communication line used for information communication may be wired or wireless, or a combination of these. Also, the DAC system S2, the terminal devices 20 and 21, and the management device 30 may be connected via a relay device such as a gateway device or a router through a plurality of networks and communication lines.

[0020] <Description of the DAC system S2> Next, the DAC system S2 will be described in detail. FIG. 3(a) is a diagram showing the configuration of the DAC system S2. The DAC system S2 includes a blower 11 that sends air, a CO2 adsorption device 12 that adsorbs carbon dioxide, CO2 concentration sensors 13A and 13B that measure the concentration of carbon dioxide, a pump 14 that sends carbon dioxide, an intermediate tank 15 that stores carbon dioxide, and a compressor 16 that liquefies carbon dioxide. However, depending on the type of the DAC system S2, any one or all of the pump 14, the intermediate tank 15, and the compressor 16 may not be applied.

[0021] The blower 11 is a device that sends air, which is an example of a gas, into the CO2 adsorption device 12. The blower 11 is not particularly limited. For example, a general fan having a plurality of blade plates (propellers) and a impeller that rotates around a main shaft, and transmitting the rotational driving force of an electric motor such as a motor to the impeller through the main shaft to perform blowing can be used. As such a blower 11, depending on the type of the impeller, there are, for example, types such as a sirocco fan, a turbo fan, a ventilation fan, and a line fan.

[0022] The CO2 adsorption device 12 is an example of an acidic gas adsorption device and is a device that adsorbs carbon dioxide in the air sent by the blower 11. The CO2 adsorption device 12 has a filter structure such as a honeycomb or filter cloth, a pellet structure, or an alkaline solution structure. When air passes through the CO2 adsorption device 12, it adsorbs carbon dioxide.

[0023] Figure 3(b) is a cross-sectional view of the CO2 adsorption device 12, illustrating its structure. As shown in Figure 3(b), the CO2 adsorption device 12 comprises a substrate 121 and a CO2 adsorption layer 122 formed on the surface of the substrate 121. The CO2 adsorption layer 122 also includes a CO2 adsorbent 122a that adsorbs carbon dioxide. The CO2 adsorption layer 122 is an example of an acidic gas adsorption layer. The CO2 adsorbent 122a is an example of an acidic gas adsorbent. In this case, the CO2 adsorption layer 122 may be formed from only the CO2 adsorbent 122a, as shown in the upper part of Figure 3(b), or it may be formed so that the CO2 adsorbent 122a is dispersed within the carrier 122b, as shown in the lower part of Figure 3(b).

[0024] The base material 121 is typically made of ceramics. Examples of ceramics include silicon carbide, silicon-silicon carbide composites, cordierite, mullite, alumina, silicon nitride, spinel, silicon carbide-cordierite composites, lithium aluminum silicate, and aluminum titanate. The constituent materials can be used individually or in combination.

[0025] CO2 adsorbents 122a include nitrogen-containing compounds; alkali compounds such as sodium hydroxide and potassium hydroxide; carbonates such as calcium carbonate and potassium carbonate; bicarbonates such as calcium bicarbonate and potassium bicarbonate; organometallic structures (MOFs) such as MOF-74, MOF-200, and MOF-210; zeolites; activated carbon; nitrogen-doped carbon; and ionic liquids. Carbon dioxide adsorbents can be used individually or in combination.

[0026] However, the CO2 adsorbent 122a is preferably a nitrogen-containing compound. More specifically, nitrogen-containing compounds include primary amines such as monoethanolamine and polyvinylamine; secondary amines such as diethanolamine, cyclic amines, and N-(3-aminopropyl)diethanolamine; tertiary amines such as methyldiethylamine and triethanolamine; ethyleneamine compounds such as tetraethylenepentamine; aminosilane coupling agents such as aminopropyltrimethoxysilane, 3-aminopropyltriethoxysilane, N-(2-aminoethyl)-3-aminopropyl-trimethoxysilane, and polyethyleneimine-trimethoxysilane; imine compounds such as ethyleneimine, linear polyethyleneimine, and branched polyethyleneimine having primary to tertiary amino groups; piperazine compounds such as 1-(2-hydroxyethyl)piperazine; amide compounds such as polyamidoamine; polyvinylamine; and organic / inorganic compounds to which amino groups are added as substituents. The CO2 adsorbent 122a can be used by using the above materials individually or in combination. The form of adsorption may be physical adsorption, as exemplified by activated carbon, or chemical adsorption, as exemplified by nitrogen-containing compounds.

[0027] The carrier 122b is, for example, a porous carrier, such as organometallic structures (MOFs) like MOF-74, MOF-200, MOF-210; activated carbon; nitrogen-doped carbon; mesoporous silica; mesoporous alumina; zeolite; carbon nanotubes; or fluorinated resins such as polyvinylidene fluoride (PVDF). The porous carrier can be used alone or in combination. Preferably, the porous carrier is made of a different material than the CO2 adsorbent 122a. The CO2 adsorption layer 122 shown in Figure 3(b) is formed on one of the two main surfaces of the substrate 121, but it may also be formed on the other surface. In other words, the CO2 adsorption layer 122 may be formed on both sides of the substrate 121.

[0028] CO2 concentration sensors 13A and 13B are examples of concentration measuring means and are sensors that measure the concentration of carbon dioxide contained in the air. Of these, CO2 concentration sensor 13A is installed on the inlet side where air flows into the CO2 adsorption device 12. Therefore, it can be said that CO2 concentration sensor 13A measures a first concentration, which is the concentration of carbon dioxide when air containing carbon dioxide is introduced into the CO2 adsorption device 12. On the other hand, CO2 concentration sensor 13B is installed on the outlet side where air flows out from the CO2 adsorption device 12. Therefore, it can be said that CO2 concentration sensor 13B measures a second concentration, which is the concentration of carbon dioxide after it has been processed by the CO2 adsorption device 12.

[0029] The CO2 concentration sensors 13A and 13B are not particularly limited as long as they are sensors capable of measuring carbon dioxide concentration. For example, NDIR (Non-Dispersive InfraRed) concentration sensors can be used for CO2 concentration sensors 13A and 13B. That is, since carbon dioxide absorbs infrared radiation with a wavelength of 4.26 μm, the amount of infrared radiation transmitted through the air decreases depending on the concentration of carbon dioxide in the air. Therefore, the concentration of carbon dioxide can be measured by measuring the intensity of infrared radiation that has passed through the air at a predetermined distance from a lamp emitting infrared radiation of this wavelength.

[0030] The air treated by the CO2 adsorption device 12 is released into the atmosphere. When the carbon dioxide adsorbed by the CO2 adsorption device 12 is to be desorbed, it is sent to the pump 14.

[0031] Pump 14 is provided to send the desorbed carbon dioxide from the CO2 adsorption device 12 to the intermediate tank 15. Pump 14 is not particularly limited as long as it can deliver gaseous carbon dioxide; for example, it can be a rotary pump.

[0032] The intermediate tank 15 temporarily stores the carbon dioxide delivered by the pump 14. The pressure inside the intermediate tank 15 can be, for example, 1 bar of atmospheric pressure. The compressor 16 liquefies gaseous carbon dioxide by compressing it. The compressor 16 then sends out the liquefied carbon dioxide for use in the CCUS cycle. The pressure of the carbon dioxide liquefied by the compressor 16 can be, for example, above the liquefaction pressure.

[0033] Figure 3(c) is a diagram illustrating the operation of the DAC system S2. This demonstrates how the DAC system S2 is operated by performing CO2 adsorption, substitution, CO2 desorption, and cooling. In the "CO2 adsorption" stage, the blower 11 is operated to send air to the CO2 adsorption device 12. This causes carbon dioxide in the air to come into contact with the CO2 adsorption layer 122 of the CO2 adsorption device 12. The carbon dioxide is then adsorbed by the CO2 adsorbent material 122a in the CO2 adsorption layer 122. This can also be considered as a carbon dioxide adsorption process. The air that has passed through the CO2 adsorption device 12 is then released into the atmosphere. At this time, the temperature of the air sent to the CO2 adsorption device 12 is, for example, 25°C, and the humidity is, for example, 40%RH. The concentration of carbon dioxide in the air is, for example, 400ppm. The temperature of the air that has passed through the CO2 adsorption device 12 is, for example, 25°C, and the pressure is 1 bar (at atmospheric pressure). The CO2 adsorption device 12 then performs the CO2 adsorption process for, for example, 10 minutes or more, preferably 1 hour.

[0034] In the "displacement" step, the CO2 adsorption device 12 is subjected to reduced pressure. Alternatively, a gas such as carbon dioxide or water vapor may be introduced. This replaces the air remaining in the CO2 adsorption device 12 after the CO2 adsorption process, thereby increasing the CO2 concentration during CO2 desorption. However, in some cases, the displacement process may be omitted depending on the DAC system S2. This can also be considered a carbon dioxide displacement step. In this case, the CO2 adsorption device 12 performs the displacement at, for example, a temperature of 25°C and a pressure of 1 bar or less.

[0035] At this time, "CO2 desorption" may also be performed. In "CO2 desorption," the CO2 adsorption device 12 is subjected to reduced pressure and heating. In some cases, only reduced pressure or only heating may be performed. This can also be considered as a carbon dioxide desorption process. At this time, the CO2 adsorption device 12 is subjected to displacement at, for example, a temperature of 120°C or lower and a pressure of 1 bar. In this way, the carbon dioxide adsorbed on the CO2 adsorption device 12 is released by heating, depressurization, temperature changes, etc., and returns to a gaseous state.

[0036] Furthermore, the "cooling" stage involves cooling the CO2 adsorption device 12. This allows the CO2 adsorption device 12 to be ready to adsorb carbon dioxide again. This can also be considered a cooling process. At this time, the temperature of the CO2 adsorption device 12 becomes 25°C, and the pressure becomes atmospheric pressure of 1 bar. The CO2 adsorption device 12 is then cooled for, for example, 10 minutes or more. In some cases, the cooling process and the adsorption process may be combined. This allows the system to return to a state where it can adsorb carbon dioxide again. In other words, "CO2 adsorption" can be performed again. By repeating the above process, carbon dioxide can be recovered with the DAC system S2.

[0037] However, the CO2 adsorbent 122a has a limited lifespan. In this case, the CO2 adsorption device 12 needs to be regenerated. Regenerating the CO2 adsorption device 12 can reduce the cost of carbon dioxide capture. However, the lifespan of the CO2 adsorbent 122a is shorter than that of the base material 121 in the CO2 adsorption device 12. Therefore, when regenerating the CO2 adsorption device 12, the base material 121 is reused as is, and a new CO2 adsorption layer 122 containing the CO2 adsorbent 122a is formed. This can also be considered a regeneration process for the CO2 adsorption device 12.

[0038] When forming a new CO2 adsorption layer 122, either the used CO2 adsorption layer 122 that has reached the end of its lifespan is removed and then a new CO2 adsorption layer 122 is formed, or a new CO2 adsorption layer 122 is formed without removing the used CO2 adsorption layer 122. The former is a method in which the used old CO2 adsorption layer 122 is removed and then a new CO2 adsorption layer 122 is reformed on the substrate 121. The latter is a method in which a new CO2 adsorption layer 122 is reformed on the used old CO2 adsorption layer 122 by overcoating. The step of removing the CO2 adsorption layer 122 that has adsorbed carbon dioxide can also be considered a CO2 adsorption layer 122 removal step. Furthermore, the step of forming a new CO2 adsorption layer 122 on the substrate 121 can also be considered a CO2 adsorption layer 122 reformation step.

[0039] To remove the used CO2 adsorption layer 122 that has reached the end of its lifespan, methods such as burning, acid dissolution, or alkaline dissolution can be used. The incineration method removes the CO2 adsorption layer 122 by heating the CO2 adsorption device 12 and burning it off. The heating temperature is, for example, 400°C or higher at the lower limit, preferably 500°C or higher, and 700°C or lower at the upper limit, preferably 650°C or lower. The heating time is not particularly limited as long as the CO2 adsorption layer 122 can be removed, for example, 1 hour or more and 48 hours or less. The acid dissolution method removes the CO2 adsorption layer 122 by passing an acidic solution through the CO2 adsorption device 12 and dissolving it in the acidic solution. Examples of acidic solutions include aqueous solutions of hydrofluoric acid, sulfuric acid, nitric acid, hydrochloric acid, and phosphoric acid. The alkaline dissolution method removes CO2 by passing an alkaline solution through the CO2 adsorption device 12 and dissolving the CO2 adsorption layer 122 in the alkaline solution. Examples of alkaline solutions include aqueous solutions of sodium hydroxide and potassium hydroxide.

[0040] To reform a new CO2 adsorption layer 122, first, the CO2 adsorbent 122a and the support 122b are added to a dispersion medium and stirred. This prepares a coating solution in which the CO2 adsorbent 122a and the support 122b are dispersed in the dispersion medium. Examples of dispersion media include polar solvents such as water, alcohols, diols, NMP (N-methyl-2-pyrrolidone), and DMSO (dimethyl sulfoxide). Then, this coating solution is applied and dried. If necessary, it is further sintered. This forms a new CO2 adsorption layer 122.

[0041] <Description of the control device 30> Next, the control device 30 will be described in detail. Figure 4 is a block diagram showing the functional configuration of the control device 30. The illustrated management device 30 includes a concentration acquisition unit 31 for acquiring the carbon dioxide concentration, a recovery amount calculation unit 32 for calculating the carbon dioxide concentration, a management unit 33 for managing the CO2 adsorption device 12, a storage unit 34 for storing data related to the CO2 adsorption device 12, and a notification unit 35 for notifying terminal devices 20 and 21.

[0042] The concentration acquisition unit 31 acquires a first concentration, which is the carbon dioxide concentration at the inlet side of the CO2 adsorption device 12, and a second concentration, which is the carbon dioxide concentration at the outlet side, from the CO2 adsorption device 12.

[0043] The recovery amount calculation unit 32 calculates the amount of carbon dioxide recovered by the CO2 adsorption device 12 based on the first concentration and the second concentration. In this case, the recovery amount calculation unit 32 first calculates the recovery rate of carbon dioxide adsorbed by the CO2 adsorption device 12 using the following formula (1).

[0044] (Recovery rate) = (Inlet CO2 concentration - Outlet CO2 concentration) / (Inlet CO2 concentration) ... (1)

[0045] The recovery amount calculation unit 32 then calculates the recovery amount per hour using the following equation (2).

[0046] (Amount recovered per hour) = (Flow rate per hour) / 22.4 (L / mol) × 44 (g / mol) × (Inlet CO2 concentration) × (Recovery rate) …(2)

[0047] The flow rate per hour can be calculated by multiplying (flow velocity) by (cross-sectional area of ​​CO2 adsorption device 12). Furthermore, 22.4 (L / mol) is the volume of a gas at standard conditions, and 44 (g / mol) is the molecular weight of carbon dioxide. Furthermore, the daily collection volume can be calculated by accumulating the collection volume per hour. In this way, the recovery amount calculation unit 32 calculates the recovery amount based on the first concentration, the second concentration, and the carbon dioxide flow rate. Furthermore, the recovery amount calculation unit 32 may calculate the recovery amount taking into account at least one of the temperature, humidity, and atmospheric pressure of the carbon dioxide. In other words, since the volume of air changes with temperature and atmospheric pressure, this is corrected. Also, since the carbon dioxide adsorption capacity of the CO2 adsorption device 12 changes with humidity, this is corrected as well.

[0048] The first concentration and second concentration obtained from the concentration acquisition unit 31, and the recovery amount calculated by the recovery amount calculation unit 32, are stored in the storage unit 34. Figure 5 shows the data structure when this data is stored in the storage unit 34. This example shows the case where the concentration acquisition unit 31 saves the data acquired from the CO2 adsorption device 12 as table T1. Table T1 shown in the diagram is created for each of the multiple CO2 adsorption devices 12. Here, we show the case where Table T1 has been created for three CO2 adsorption devices 12, labeled Adsorption Device A, Adsorption Device B, and Adsorption Device C.

[0049] Table T1 consists of data for the time (Time) at which various data were acquired, including air flow velocity, CO2 concentration at the inlet, CO2 concentration at the outlet, capture ratio, temperature, relative humidity, air pressure, captured CO2 in one hour, and captured CO2 in one day. The flow velocity is the flow velocity of the air sent to the CO2 adsorption device 12. The inlet CO2 concentration is the first concentration, which is the CO2 concentration at the inlet side of the CO2 adsorption device 12. Furthermore, the outlet CO2 concentration is the second concentration, which is the CO2 concentration at the outlet side of the CO2 adsorption device 12. Furthermore, the recovery rate represents the proportion of carbon dioxide contained in the air that could be adsorbed by the CO2 adsorption device 12. In addition, temperature, relative humidity, and atmospheric pressure are the temperature, humidity, relative humidity, and atmospheric pressure of the air sent to the CO2 adsorption device 12. The hourly recovery amount and the daily recovery amount are the recovery amount per hour and per day, respectively.

[0050] Returning to Figure 4, the management unit 33 performs management to replace and regenerate the CO2 adsorption device 12 based on the regeneration timing of the CO2 adsorption device 12, which is determined based on the amount of recovery calculated by the recovery amount calculation unit 32.

[0051] Figure 6 is a conceptual diagram showing the management method for the CO2 adsorption device 12. In this embodiment, the management unit 33 determines the regeneration timing for each of the multiple CO2 adsorption devices 12 based on the recovery amount calculated by the recovery amount calculation unit 32. The management unit 33 then stores the regeneration timing in the database shown in the diagram for each CO2 adsorption device 12. This database corresponds to the storage unit 34 of the management device 30.

[0052] Figure 7 illustrates the regeneration timing of the CO2 adsorption device 12. In Figure 7, the horizontal axis represents time (months), and the vertical axis represents the average recovery rate over one month. As shown in the diagram, the average recovery rate of the CO2 adsorption device 12 decreases over time due to the deterioration of the CO2 adsorbent material 122a. The actual average recovery rate is shown by the solid line (actual). The expected average recovery rate is shown by the dotted line (forecast). An average recovery rate of 75% is set as the regeneration threshold, and when the actual average recovery rate falls below this threshold, it is considered the time when replacement of the CO2 adsorption device 12 is mandatory. Furthermore, the range in which the average recovery rate is between 75% and 85% is defined as the alarm range, and when the actual average recovery rate falls within this alarm range, it is recommended that the CO2 adsorption device 12 be replaced.

[0053] Therefore, when the actual average recovery rate falls below the regeneration threshold, the regeneration timing is "immediately." Also, when the actual average recovery rate is within the alarm range, there is no need to replace the unit immediately, but since its lifespan is nearing its end, replacement may be carried out depending on efficiency.

[0054] Returning to Figure 6, the management unit 33 manages multiple CO2 adsorption devices 12 based on their regeneration schedules. Here, the CO2 recoverer has a contract with a CO2 adsorption device regenerator, which is a company that regenerates the CO2 adsorption devices 12. In this case, the CO2 adsorption device regenerator replaces the CO2 adsorption devices 12, manages their regeneration schedules, and updates them with the latest capacity CO2 adsorption material 122a. The CO2 recoverer also pays the CO2 adsorption device regenerator regeneration costs periodically or each time a replacement is needed.

[0055] In accordance with this contract, the management unit 33 manages the CO2 adsorption devices 12. Specifically, it manages the replacement of each CO2 adsorption device 12 based on the determined regeneration period. When a CO2 adsorption device 12 is replaced, the management unit 33 manages the regeneration history of the CO2 adsorption device 12. The regeneration history of the CO2 adsorption device 12 is stored in the storage unit 34 corresponding to the database. The regeneration history of the CO2 adsorption device 12 is managed in a data structure such as the table T2 shown below.

[0056] Figure 8 shows table T2, which represents the regeneration history of the CO2 adsorption device 12. Table T2 manages the model number, lot number, and replacement status for both the base material 121 and the CO2 adsorbent material 122a, based on the time (Time) when the adsorption device A, which is the CO2 adsorption device 12, was replaced. In other words, the management unit 33 manages the regeneration history for both the base material 121 and the CO2 adsorbent material 122a.

[0057] The "model number" indicates the new or old versions of the base material 121 and the CO2 adsorbent 122a. The management unit 13 manages the model number, which is determined by the type of base material 121 and the CO2 adsorbent 122a. When regenerating the CO2 adsorption device 12, the CO2 adsorbent 122a to be used is determined by this model number. In other words, when regenerating the CO2 adsorption device 12, if a newer version of the CO2 adsorbent 122a is available than the one previously used, the regeneration will be performed using the newer version of the CO2 adsorbent 122a.

[0058] "Replacement performed" indicates whether or not the item was replaced with a new one during the refurbishment process. In this case, "Yes" means that it was replaced with a new one, and "No" means that it was not replaced and was used as is.

[0059] Furthermore, the control unit 33 may also perform additional management of the CO2 concentration sensors 13A and 13B. In this case, the management involves the calibration of the CO2 concentration sensors 13A and 13B. If there is an error in the measured values ​​of the CO2 concentration sensors 13A and 13B, an error will also occur in the amount of carbon dioxide recovered based on these values. If carbon dioxide emission trading is based on this recovered amount, the recovered amount must be accurate. Therefore, in order to ensure the accuracy of the CO2 concentration sensors 13A and 13B, calibration of the CO2 concentration sensors 13A and 13B is necessary. For this reason, the control unit 33 also manages the CO2 concentration sensors 13A and 13B and issues calibration certificates to guarantee measurement accuracy. Specifically, the calibration timing of the CO2 concentration sensors 13A and 13B is managed, and the calibration timing is set at predetermined intervals (for example, every year).

[0060] The notification unit 35 notifies the regenerator of the CO2 adsorption device 12 of the regeneration timing. Specifically, the notification unit 35 notifies the terminal device 21 (see FIG. 2) of the CO2 adsorption device regenerator, and the CO2 adsorption device regenerator receives this notification on the terminal device 21. In this case, as shown in FIG. 7, when the actual average recovery rate is less than the regeneration execution threshold value, the notification unit 35 notifies that it is the time when the replacement of the CO2 adsorption device 12 is essential. Further, when the actual average recovery rate is within the alarm range, the notification unit notifies that it is the time when the replacement of the CO2 adsorption device 12 is recommended. At this time, based on the expected average recovery rate shown in FIG. 7, it is also possible to notify the time when the replacement of the CO2 adsorption device 12 becomes essential.

[0061] Also, as shown in FIG. 6, the management device 30 enables the CO2 collector who collects carbon dioxide to grasp the CO2 collection amount. This is done by the notification unit 35 notifying the CO2 collector of the collection amount. The notification of the collection amount is notified, for example, as a regular report. Specifically, the notification unit 35 sends a regular report to the terminal device 20 (see FIG. 2) of the CO2 collector, and the CO2 collector receives this regular report on the terminal device 20.

[0062] FIGS. 9(a) to (b) are diagrams showing examples of regular reports. Here, in FIG. 9(a), the horizontal axis represents time, and the vertical axis represents the CO2 collection amount per hour and the average CO2 recovery rate per hour. FIG. 9(a) shows the changes in the collection amount and recovery rate during one day. Also, in FIG. 9(b), the horizontal axis represents time, and the vertical axis represents the CO2 collection amount for one day. FIG. 9(b) shows the cumulative value of the collection amount during one day.

[0063] <Explanation of the operation of the CO2 adsorption system 1> FIG. 10 is a flowchart explaining the operation of the CO2 adsorption system 1. First, the CO2 adsorption device 12 outputs the results from the CO2 concentration sensors 13A and 13B (inlet / outlet sensors) (step S101). Specifically, the CO2 adsorption device 12 outputs a first concentration, which is the carbon dioxide concentration at the inlet side of the CO2 adsorption device 12, and a second concentration, which is the carbon dioxide concentration at the outlet side. The result output also includes data such as time, flow rate, temperature, relative humidity, and atmospheric pressure, as shown in table T1 in Figure 5.

[0064] Next, the concentration acquisition unit 31 of the control device 30 acquires the result output from the CO2 adsorption device 12 and stores it in the storage unit 34 (step S102). This is stored in the format shown in table T1 in Figure 5. Furthermore, the recovery amount calculation unit 32 of the control device 30 removes noise components from the result output using a moving average processing method or the like (step S103). This removes noise components from the data for the first concentration and the second concentration. Then, the recovery amount calculation unit 32 of the control device 30 calculates the carbon dioxide recovery rate, the management unit 33 of the control device 30 creates a periodic report, and the notification unit 35 sends the periodic report to the CO2 recoverer (step S104).

[0065] Then, the recovery amount calculation unit 32 of the management device 30 calculates the recovery rate, and the management unit 33 determines whether this recovery rate is above a threshold (step S105). This threshold is the regeneration implementation threshold explained in Figure 7. As a result, if the recovery rate is above the threshold (YES in step S105), the CO2 adsorption device 12 is used as is (step S106). Conversely, if the recovery rate is below the threshold (NO in step S105), the management unit 33 determines that it is time to regenerate the CO2 adsorption device 12, and the notification unit 35 issues an alert notification to the CO2 adsorption device regeneration operator (step S107). In other words, the notification unit 35 notifies the CO2 adsorption device regeneration operator that it is time for regeneration.

[0066] Furthermore, when a CO2 adsorption device regenerator replaces the CO2 adsorption device 12, they regenerate the used CO2 adsorption device 12. At this time, the management unit 33 stores the regeneration history of the CO2 adsorption device 12 in the format shown in table T2 of Figure 8. Based on this regeneration history, the CO2 adsorption device regenerator determines whether the CO2 adsorbent material 122a is the latest (step S108). As a result, if it is the latest model (YES in step S108), the CO2 adsorption device regenerator will use the current CO2 adsorption material 122a to perform the regeneration work on the CO2 adsorption device 12 (step S109). Conversely, if the material is not the latest (NO in step S108), the CO2 adsorption device regenerator uses the latest CO2 adsorption material 122a to perform the regeneration work on the CO2 adsorption device 12 (step S110). Then, after performing the regeneration work on the CO2 adsorption device 12, the CO2 adsorption device regenerator inputs the regeneration history to be stored in the management device 30 (step S111). In practice, the CO2 adsorption device regenerator inputs the details of the regeneration work using the terminal device 21 (see Figure 2). The input data is sent to the management device 30, which stores it as the regeneration history in a format similar to table T2 in Figure 8.

[0067] <Explanation of effects> According to the configuration described above, by managing the CO2 adsorption devices 12 in real time, each CO2 adsorption device 12 can be replaced at the appropriate time. Therefore, management of the CO2 adsorption devices 12 is easy, and costs can be reduced.

[0068] Furthermore, according to the configuration described above, multiple CO2 recoverers pay a CO2 adsorption device regenerator a periodic or on-demand reuse fee, and entrust them with the replacement, collection, and management of the CO2 adsorption device 12. The CO2 adsorption device regenerator can respond efficiently by being entrusted with many projects, and can provide replacement and management of the CO2 adsorption device 12 at a low cost.

[0069] Furthermore, by having multiple CO2 recoverers pay the CO2 adsorption device regenerator a reuse fee periodically or on a case-by-case basis, the latest CO2 adsorbent material 122a is always used when it is replaced. The CO2 adsorption device regenerator can also provide the CO2 adsorbent material 122a at a low cost by applying the latest CO2 adsorbent material 122a to many projects. At the same time, a planned regeneration plan for the CO2 adsorption device 12 can be created based on the expected average recovery rate shown in Figure 7. As a result, the amount of CO2 adsorbent material 122a held by the CO2 adsorption device regenerator can be kept down, and even when the CO2 adsorbent material 122a is switched to a new type, the occurrence of dead stock of the old type of CO2 adsorbent material 122a can be suppressed.

[0070] Furthermore, multiple CO2 recoverers can entrust the management and calibration of peripheral measuring instruments, including CO2 concentration sensors 13A and 13B, to a CO2 adsorption device regenerator by paying fees periodically or on a per-use basis. The CO2 adsorption device regenerator can also be entrusted with many projects and respond at an efficient frequency based on the performance data stored in the management device 30, thus providing low-cost replacement and management of the CO2 adsorption device 12. Examples of peripheral measuring instruments other than CO2 concentration sensors 13A and 13B include air flow meters for measuring flow velocity, and thermometers, hygrometers, and barometers for measuring the surrounding environment. Furthermore, when managing CO2 concentration sensors 13A and 13B, the amount of carbon dioxide recovered can be guaranteed by calibrating them at predetermined intervals and issuing calibration certificates.

[0071] In addition to carbon dioxide (CO2), other examples of acidic gases include hydrogen sulfide (H2S), sulfur oxides (SOx) such as sulfur dioxide (SO2), nitrogen dioxide (NO2), dimethyl sulfide (DMS), and hydrogen chloride (HCl). The above-described method explains the case of recovering carbon dioxide from the air by adsorption, but it is not limited to this. For example, coke oven gas discharged from a coke oven contains hydrogen sulfide. When coke oven gas is used as fuel, the presence of hydrogen sulfide results in the emission of sulfur oxides. Since sulfur oxides are harmful, it is sometimes desirable to remove (desulfurize) the hydrogen sulfide beforehand to avoid the generation of sulfur oxides. The above-described method can be applied when removing hydrogen sulfide contained in coke oven gas. In this case, the gas is coke oven gas, and the acidic gas is hydrogen sulfide. Also, when fossil fuels are burned, sulfur oxides are released along with carbon dioxide. In this case, it is sometimes desirable to remove (desulfurize) the sulfur oxides along with the carbon dioxide. Therefore, the above-described method can also be applied when it is desired to remove sulfur oxides. In this case, the gas is air, and the acidic gases are carbon dioxide and sulfur oxides.

[0072] <Explanation of management methods> Here, the process performed by the control device 30 can be understood as a management method that acquires a first concentration, which is the concentration of the acidic gas when a gas containing the acidic gas is introduced into the acidic gas adsorption device that adsorbs the acidic gas, and a second concentration, which is the concentration of the acidic gas after treatment by the acidic gas adsorption device. Based on the first and second concentrations, it calculates the amount of acidic gas recovered by the acidic gas adsorption device, and based on the regeneration timing of the acidic gas adsorption device determined based on the calculated recovery amount, it replaces and regenerates the acidic gas adsorption device.

[0073] Although this embodiment has been described above, the technical scope of the present invention is not limited to the scope described in the above embodiment. It is clear from the claims that various modifications or improvements to the above embodiment are also included in the technical scope of the present invention. For example, the various data items shown in Figure 5, the average monthly carbon dioxide recovery rate shown in Figure 7, the regeneration history of the CO2 adsorption device 12 shown in Figure 8, and the periodic report shown in Figure 9 are just examples, and the items and numerical values ​​listed in these figures may be other items or other numerical values. [Explanation of Symbols]

[0074] 1…CO2 adsorption system, 12…CO2 adsorption device, 13A, 13B…CO2 concentration sensor, 20, 20A, 20B, 20C, 21…Terminal device, 30…Management device, 31…Concentration acquisition unit, 32…Recovery amount calculation unit, 33…Management unit, 34…Storage unit, 35…Notification unit, 121…Substrate, 122…CO2 adsorption layer, 122a…CO2 adsorbent, 122b…Carrier, S…CCUS cycle, S2…DAC system, K1, K2, K3…CO2 recoverer, R1…CO2 adsorption device regenerator

Claims

1. A concentration acquisition unit that acquires a first concentration, which is the concentration of the acidic gas when a gas containing the acidic gas is introduced into an acidic gas adsorption device that adsorbs acidic gases, and a second concentration, which is the concentration of the acidic gas after processing by the acidic gas adsorption device. Based on the first concentration and the second concentration, a recovery amount calculation unit calculates the recovery rate of the acidic gas adsorbed by the acidic gas adsorption device, and based on the calculated recovery rate, calculates the amount of the acidic gas recovered. A management unit manages the replacement and regeneration of the acid gas adsorption device based on the regeneration timing of the acid gas adsorption device, which is determined based on at least one of the calculated recovery rate and the amount of recovery, and further manages the payment of the regeneration costs of the acid gas adsorption device. A notification unit that notifies the person who regenerates the acid gas adsorption device of the regeneration timing, and notifies the person who recovers the acid gas of the amount to be recovered, A control device equipped with the following features.

2. The acid gas adsorption apparatus comprises a substrate and an acid gas adsorption layer formed on the surface of the substrate and containing an acid gas adsorbent that adsorbs the acid gas. The control device according to claim 1, wherein when the acid gas adsorption device is regenerated, a new acid gas adsorption layer is formed.

3. The control device according to claim 2, wherein when a new acid gas adsorption layer is formed, the used acid gas adsorption layer is removed and then a new acid gas adsorption layer is formed, or the used acid gas adsorption layer is not removed and a new acid gas adsorption layer is formed.

4. The control unit manages the type determined by the type of acid gas adsorbent, and the control device according to claim 2, wherein the type of acid gas adsorbent to be used is determined when the acid gas adsorbent is regenerated.

5. The aforementioned model number indicates the new or old acid gas adsorbent, as described in claim 4.

6. The management device according to claim 2, wherein the management unit manages the regeneration history for each of the substrate and the acid gas adsorbent.

7. The control device according to claim 1, wherein the regeneration period includes a period during which replacement of the acid gas adsorption device is essential and a period during which replacement of the acid gas adsorption device is recommended.

8. The control device according to claim 1, wherein the amount recovered is calculated based on the first concentration, the second concentration, and the flow rate of the acidic gas.

9. The control device according to claim 8, wherein the amount recovered is calculated taking into account at least one of the temperature, humidity, and atmospheric pressure of the acidic gas.

10. The control device according to claim 1, wherein the control unit further controls the concentration measuring means for measuring the first concentration and the second concentration.

11. The control device according to claim 10, wherein the control is the control of the calibration of the concentration measuring means.

12. A management method performed by a computer, A first concentration, which is the concentration of the acidic gas when a gas containing the acidic gas is introduced into an acidic gas adsorption device that adsorbs acidic gases, and a second concentration, which is the concentration of the acidic gas after processing with the acidic gas adsorption device, are obtained. Based on the first and second concentrations, the recovery rate of the acidic gas adsorbed by the acidic gas adsorption device is calculated, and based on the calculated recovery rate, the amount of acidic gas recovered is calculated. Based on the calculated recovery rate and the amount of recovery, the system manages the replacement and regeneration of the acid gas adsorption device, and further manages the payment of the regeneration costs for the acid gas adsorption device. The acid gas adsorption device regeneration operator who regenerates the acid gas adsorption device will be notified of the regeneration period, and the acid gas recovery operator who recovers the acid gas will be notified of the amount recovered. Management method.

13. An acid gas adsorption device that adsorbs acidic gases, A concentration measuring means for measuring a first concentration, which is the concentration of the acidic gas when the acidic gas is introduced into the acidic gas adsorption device, and a second concentration, which is the concentration of the acidic gas after processing with the acidic gas adsorption device. A control device that manages the acid gas adsorption device based on the first concentration and the second concentration, Equipped with, The aforementioned control device is A concentration acquisition unit that acquires the first concentration and the second concentration from the concentration measuring means, Based on the first concentration and the second concentration, a recovery amount calculation unit calculates the recovery rate of the acidic gas adsorbed by the acidic gas adsorption device, and based on the calculated recovery rate, calculates the amount of the acidic gas recovered. A management unit manages the replacement and regeneration of the acid gas adsorption device based on the regeneration timing of the acid gas adsorption device, which is determined based on at least one of the calculated recovery rate and the amount of recovery, and further manages the payment of the regeneration costs of the acid gas adsorption device. A notification unit that notifies the person who regenerates the acid gas adsorption device of the regeneration timing, and notifies the person who recovers the acid gas of the amount to be recovered, An acid gas adsorption system equipped with the following features.

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