Potassium sarcosinate-13× zeolite hybrid adsorbent for CO<sub>2</sub> capture: zwitterionic interface engineering, dual-mode uptake, and energy-efficient regeneration
SEPARATION AND PURIFICATION TECHNOLOGY, vol.394, 2026 (SCI-Expanded, Scopus)
- Publication Type: Article / Article
- Volume: 394
- Publication Date: 2026
- Doi Number: 10.1016/j.seppur.2026.137528
- Journal Name: SEPARATION AND PURIFICATION TECHNOLOGY
- Journal Indexes: Science Citation Index Expanded (SCI-EXPANDED), Scopus, Chemical Abstracts Core, Chimica, Compendex, INSPEC, Academic Search Ultimate (EBSCO), Engineering Source (EBSCO)
- Ondokuz Mayıs University Affiliated: Yes
Abstract
The development of adsorbents combining high CO2 capacity, structural stability, and low regeneration energy remains critical for post-combustion capture. Here, a potassium sarcosinate-modified zeolite 13 & times; composite was synthesized and systematically examined to elucidate structure performance correlations, adsorption-desorption dynamics, and cyclic stability under realistic operating conditions. Experiments performed at 20 vol% CO2 and 25-100 degrees C, supported by isotherm, kinetic, and thermodynamic modeling, revealed a maximum equilibrium loading of 4.23 mmol g(-1) 32% higher than pristine 13 & times;. The regeneration energy (1.23 GJ t(-1) CO2) was nearly 40% lower than that of conventional amine solvents. Pseudo-second-order kinetics (R-2 > 0.99) indicated chemisorption-controlled uptake with an initial rate of 0.0046 mol mol(-1) min(-1). Thermodynamic parameters confirmed spontaneous (Delta G degrees < 0) and exothermic (Delta H degrees = -32.4 kJ mol(-1)) adsorption, favoring efficient regeneration. Over twelve cycles, >95% capacity retention was maintained. FTIR analysis identified both physisorbed CO2 species within zeolitic pores and chemisorbed carbamate/bicarbonate complexes stabilized by the zwitterionic sarcosinate, revealing a dual-pathway mechanism responsible for enhanced performance. Embedding biodegradable amino acid salts into zeolitic frameworks thus mitigates hydrophilicity constraints and improves working capacity, stability, and energy efficiency. The sarcosinate-13 & times; zeolite composite therefore represents a promising candidate for temperature- or vacuum-swing post-combustion CO2 capture systems.