AIR MONITORING
RELIABLE CARBON CAPTURE THROUGH SMART ANALYZER INTEGRATION
Figure 1:Measuring points for Process Analytics in the Carbon Capture Post-Combustion Process 1 Abstract
Carbon capture, Utilization, and Storage (CCUS) technologies are vital for achieving global decarbonization goals. However, the success of CCUS depends not only on capture efficiency or storage security, but also on maintaining consistent gas quality, optimizing processes, and ensuring compliance with strict safety and environmental standards. This is where process analytics emerges as a strategic enabler. Beyond individual analyzers, it is the integration of sampling, conditioning, monitoring, and digital control systems into cohesive solutions that drives efficiency and reliability. This article highlights system integration, analyzer platforms, and the importance of robust probe sampling in hazardous environments.
2 The value of Integrated Process Analytics in Decarbonization Processes
The global energy transition requires both rapid expansion of renewable energy and effective strategies to manage existing CO2
emissions. CCUS has become a cornerstone technology, but its success hinges on reliable process data. Process analytics provides this foundation by measuring gas compositions, detecting trace components, and ensuring environmental compliance. As part of process management, process analytics helps make operations as economically efficient as possible. This enhances plant yields, optimizes energy costs, and ensures product quality and specifications - even in innovative and sustainable processes. Therefore, the payback period of process analytical equipment is often under one year.
3 Analytical Checkpoints Across The CCUS Chain 3.1 Key Technology Steps in Carbon Capture and Storage CO2
3.2 Process Analytics in Carbon Capture Facilities In CO2
CO2-lean flue gas
Flue gas (CO2- rich) 4
CO2-lean solvent
Pre- Treatment 2 Industrial sources from fossil fuels or biomass 1 3 Heating Figure 1: Measuring points for Process Analytics in the Carbon Capture Post-Combustion Process capture, multiple gas components must be measured
to optimize both energy efficiency and capture performance. Additionally, the flue gas released into the atmosphere must meet environmental standards, requiring it to be clean and free of pollutants. Further processing requires the removal of trace gases such as N₂, O₂, NOx, SOx, and H₂S to minimal levels, and the complete drying of the CO₂. All of these steps are continuously monitored using online analytical systems.
After combined purification and liquefaction, the CO2 quality must
be verified again to ensure it meets specifications for transport, for example via pipeline in liquefied form (LCO2
has been captured from industrial process streams for many years using established technologies. Proven methods include pre-combustion, post-combustion, and oxyfuel processes. As an example, the post-combustion process works as follows: CO2
. The CO2 -rich solution ) at approximately
20 bar or higher, and for final use. Across the entire value chain, multiple measurement points for process analyzers, employing a variety of analytical technologies, can be identified, as illustrated above.
is separated from the flue gas after combustion using a chemical solvent. A well-established method for decades is amine absorption. In the first stage, the flue gas comes into contact with the amine solution, which binds the CO2
(an amine/water mixture) is then sent to a stripper column, where CO2
is released at elevated temperatures, and the amine
solution is recycled. After a dehydration step, the purified CO2 compressed for transport via pipeline.
is For flue gas monitoring at the boiler up to CO2 capture as well
as emission monitoring at the stack, continuous gas analyzers based on various spectroscopic principles such as infrared (e.g. NDIR or FTIR) or others (UV, CLD, TDLS) are proven in use, if required combined with FID or paramagnetic Oxygen analyzers.
Regardless of the analyzer technology used across the CCUS chain, sample preparation systems play an important role in terms of measurement accuracy, reliability, and availability.
3.3 Probe Sampling and Conditioning - The Gateway to Reliable Analytics
To ensure that the online analysis delivers representative and reliable measurement results, it is essential that the entire analysis system—from probe sampling to the analyzer—is well coordinated. Measurement inaccuracies often result from poor compatibility between sampling, transport, and conditioning components, the sample itself, and the surrounding environmental conditions. The complexity increases further when measurements are conducted in hazardous and explosive environments, which demand a careful selection of components.
Below the key elements of the probe sampling and conditioning and the specific requirements for equipment in hazardous areas are described:
The Gas Sampling Probe
The gas sampling probe is the primary entry point for the gas analysis system, making efficient sample filtration critical for reliable operation. While many probes exist for safe areas, ATEX-certified probes capable of maintaining temperatures of 150–180°C are limited. Most probes operate at 180°C, and ATEX regulations require temperature limiters to prevent exceeding rated temperature classes. Products like the PSG Process Probe integrate built-in limiters, simplifying installation and compliance.
5 6
Heat exchanger
Pure CO2
Lique- faction
De- hydration
Liquid CO2 For transport
and sequestration
18 | AET NOVEMBER 2025 |
ENVIROTECH-ONLINE.COM
Absorption
Separation
Page 1 |
Page 2 |
Page 3 |
Page 4 |
Page 5 |
Page 6 |
Page 7 |
Page 8 |
Page 9 |
Page 10 |
Page 11 |
Page 12 |
Page 13 |
Page 14 |
Page 15 |
Page 16 |
Page 17 |
Page 18 |
Page 19 |
Page 20 |
Page 21 |
Page 22 |
Page 23 |
Page 24 |
Page 25 |
Page 26 |
Page 27 |
Page 28 |
Page 29 |
Page 30 |
Page 31 |
Page 32 |
Page 33 |
Page 34 |
Page 35 |
Page 36
