CO2 Adsorption on the N- and P-Modified Mesoporous Silicas

SBA-15 and MCM-48 mesoporous silicas were modified with functionalized (3-aminopropyl)triethoxysilane (APTES) by using the post-synthesis method, thus introducing N- and P-containing groups to the pore surface. The structure of the newly synthesized modifiers (aldimine and aminophosphonate derivatives of (3-aminopropyl)triethoxysilane and their grafting onto the porous matrix were proved by applying multinuclear NMR and FTIR spectroscopies. The content of the grafted functional groups was determined via thermogravimetric analysis. The physicochemical properties of the adsorbent samples were studied by nitrogen physisorption and UV–Vis spectroscopy. The adsorption capacity of CO₂ was measured in a dynamic CO₂ adsorption regime. The modified silicas displayed an enhanced adsorption capacity compared to the initial material. The ¹³C NMR spectra with high-power proton decoupling proved the presence of physically captured CO₂. A value of 4.60 mmol/g was achieved for the MCM-48 material grafted with the Schiff base residues. The total CO₂ desorption was achieved at 40 °C. A slight decrease of about 5% in CO₂ adsorption capacities was registered for the modified silicas in three adsorption/desorption cycles, indicating their performance stability.

Experimental Investigation on the Effect of Dry Ice Compression on the Poisson Ratio

In the processing of waste materials, attention must be given to the efficient use of energy. The pelletization of dry ice is a good example of such processes. A literature review shows that in the pelletizers available on the market, the force applied in the process is excessive. As a result, the efficiency of the utilization of inputs, including electricity and carbon dioxide, is at a very low level. This article presents the results of experimental research on the effect of the degree of dry ice compression on the value of the Poisson ratio. The first part of this article presents the research methodology and a description of the test stand, developed specifically for this research, bearing in mind the unique properties of carbon dioxide in the solid state. The results presented show the behavior of dry ice during compression in a rectangular chamber for different final densities of the finished product. As a result, it is possible to determine the values of the Poisson ratio as a function of density, using for this purpose four mathematical models. The findings of this research may be useful for research work focused on the further development of this process, such as by using the Drucker–Prager/Cap numerical model to optimize the geometric parameters of the parts and components of the main unit of the machine used in the extrusion process of dry ice.