The unit described in Exercise 10.1 experiences corrosion. Upon checking, the operator determines that the rich amine loading is much higher than 0.45 mol/mol and is causing corrosion. The high...

The unit described in Exercise 10.1 experiences corrosion. Upon checking, the operator determines that the rich amine loading is much higher than 0.45 mol/mol and is causing corrosion. The high loading is due to complete removal of CO2 from the gas by the MEA. Without changing solvent, how might the treating requirement be accomplished using 18 wt% MEA and meeting the 2% outlet specification? (Hint: Consider changing contactor gas flow.)

Exercise 10.1

Feed gas enters an amine treating unit at a rate of 100 MMscfd (2.68 × 106 Nm3/d). The gas contains 5% CO2 and no H2S. The treater uses 18 wt% MEA solution. Assume the lean amine contains 0.12 mol CO2/mol of amine and the rich amine contains 0.45 mol CO2/mol amine. To meet the pipeline specification of 2% CO2, what minimum lean amine flow rate in gpm (m3/h)