The effect of different synthetic methods of silica-based matrices compounds on the CO2 sequestration

• Published in: Reaction kinetics, mechanisms and catalysis mechanisms and catalysis, 2023-08, Vol.136 (4), p.1983-2002
• Main Authors: Kharchafi, Achaimae, Dahmani, Jaouad, Tanji, Karim, Iboustaten, Elmustafa, Fahoul, Youssef, Belghiti, Mohamed, El Mrabet, Imane, Esquivias, Luis, Kherbeche, Abdelhak
• Format: Article
• Language: English
• Subjects: Catalysis; Chemistry; Chemistry and Materials Science; Industrial Chemistry/Chemical Engineering; Physical Chemistry
• ISSN: 1878-5190; 1878-5204
• DOI: 10.1007/s11144-023-02452-6

This study focuses on the utilization of mineral carbonation as a means to capture carbon dioxide (CO 2 ) from the atmosphere. The approach involves using various composites consisting of an inert matrix with an active phase. To evaluate the efficiency of mineral carbonation for CO 2 sequestration, three composites were synthesized based on calcium-rich and calcium/magnesium-rich minerals using sol–gel techniques. The results obtained from the characterization techniques used, namely X-ray diffraction, infrared spectroscopy and scanning electron microscopy, demonstrate the formation of composite materials such as calcium oxide and calcium/magnesium oxides. After the bubbling process, these techniques confirmed the formation of stable calcium and magnesium carbonates. In addition, to assess the efficiency of the synthesized composites in CO 2 capture, a Bernard’s Calcimeter was used to determine the operating parameters favouring the mineral carbonation reaction. Analysing these operating parameters reveals that under atmospheric pressure and at room temperature, increasing the mass of the compound used leads to an increase in the percentage of captured CO 2 up to 0.5 g, but this rate remains relatively constant when the mass is increased to 1 g. Additionally, increasing the particle size results in a higher CO 2 capture rate. The initial pH of the solution plays a crucial role in promoting mineral carbonation, as an increase in the initial pH also leads to an increase in the CO 2 fixation rate. It is essential for the medium to be basic, as this is one of the critical parameters contributing to the enhanced CO 2 sequestration rate through the mineral carbonation method.