This experimental setup evaluates the CO₂ capture capacity of various solvents, including aqueous amine solutions and other organic-based solvents. It features a water-jacketed glass reactor that allows for temperature control ranging from 21°C to 200°C. The setup includes a gas mixer and in-line CO₂ analyzers to accurately test both high- and low-CO₂ concentration input streams, simulating conditions found in post-combustion processes and direct air capture (DAC) experiments. With our team’s expertise, we can provide insights into the physicochemical phenomena related to the CO₂-amine reaction, including the capture mechanism and chemical stability. Additionally, we assess overall process performance through CO₂ loading evaluations and energy consumption analyses.

In the Okuno group, we are developing an electrochemical process to generate chemicals and fuels, such as sodium formate, formic acid, and carbon monoxide, from carbon feedstocks. These feedstocks include CO2 gas and bicarbonate aqueous solutions, using electricity and water. We conduct fundamental studies of the conversion process using a potentiostat/galvanostat in an H-type cell configuration (referred to as Electrolyzer 1). This setup is then integrated into a flow electrolyzer system (Electrolyzer 2) for larger-scale assessments, including evaluations of energy efficiency and economic analysis. Additionally, we study and develop pathways to creating efficient, low-cost, and sustainable electrocatalysts, keeping in mind the performance standards relevant to industrial applications.

The Cambridge Viscometer VISCO PRO 2000 system is a high-precision instrument designed for fluid viscosity measurements. It covers a broad viscosity range from 0.2 cP to 20,000 cP, making it ideal for diverse fluid analyses. The viscometer can operate under maximum conditions of 375°C (707°F) and 34.5 MPa (5,000 psia).

The viscometer can be used with a high-pressure high-temperature density meter (Anton Paar and Hydramotion viscometers) for the same fluid sample at the same thermodynamic conditions. A combined setup of viscosity and density measurements is shown below. Our setup exemplifies its robust capabilities, showcasing its essential role in advanced research applications.

Our slim-tube setup is crucial for assessing oil displacement efficiency in enhanced oil recovery (EOR) studies. This one-dimensional porous media setup spans 60 feet in length, with an internal diameter of 0.124 inches and a wall thickness of 0.063 inches. The bead pack within the slim tube has a porosity of 35% and a permeability of 3.8 Darcy.

Typically employed to measure the efficiency of gas injections—such as CO₂ and enriched gas—under varying pressures, the slim-tube setup operates effectively at pressures up to 10,000 psia. This experimental setup provides invaluable insights into the behavior and effectiveness of gas EOR methods. The setup is placed in an oven to control the displacement temperature, which represents the target formation’s temperature.

This is an example setup for oil recovery experiments. In this setup, an aqueous dispersion of CO2 nanobubbles was injected into a high-pressure, high-temperature vessel containing a tight sandstone core that was saturated with live oil. This mimics a huff-n-puff process for tight oil recovery. The CO2 nanobubble dispersion was generated using membrane filters located within the core holder.

The huff-n-puff experiments were conducted at a pressure of 24.2 MPa (3,515 psia), which is above the thermodynamic minimum miscibility pressure of 17.5 MPa (2,538 psia.) at the experimental temperature of 102°C (216°F). Below is a schematic of the setup. Details are in SPE-218179-MS.

A PVT cell is a versatile tool for studying fluid phase behavior across a broad range of temperatures and pressures. Equipped with a piston, mixer, and visual window, it provides comprehensive data on fluid properties. The cell is encased in heaters to maintain desired temperatures, with a maximum temperature of 250°C (482°F) and a maximum pressure of 35 MPa (5,076 psia). Made from Hastelloy, it holds up to 200 mL of sample.

The System B PVT cell is designed for high-pressure studies, capable of handling up to 103 MPa (15,000 psia) and temperatures reaching 150°C (302°F). Made from stainless steel, it can accommodate up to 130 mL of sample. The unit shown in the photo is placed in an oven to achieve a test temperature. This cell is ideal for obtaining precise data on fluid phase behavior under extreme conditions.