This paper examines the major processes available for the removal of carbon dioxide from synthesis gas streams produced by the catalytic steam reforming of natural gas. The development of these processes is followed and the up to date designs are described. It is shown that the improved versions of the established processes have similar overall performance to the newer physical solvent processes especially where 100% CO₂ recovery is required. However the simpler and in most cases cheaper physical solvent plants are likely to increase their number especially in circumstances where 100% CO₂ recovery is not required.

F C Brown and C L Leci, Humphries and Glasgow Ltd, London, UK.

15 pages, 4 figures, 1 table.