Strategy for Maintaining Environmental Stability: Synthesis CO2 Emission Gases into Sodium Carbonate

Abstract

The growing urgency of global environmental issues and the critical role of green and sustainable chemistry in developing eco-friendly processes call for innovative strategies to minimize waste. The conversion of carbon dioxide (CO₂), the primary greenhouse gas, into high-value compounds such as sodium carbonate (Na₂CO₃) needs to be carried out by reacting it with sodium hydroxide (NaOH) in solution. Optimal CO₂ conversion can be achieved when integrating factors affecting the diffusion-reaction process is formulated correctly. Therefore, this research aims to analyze and investigate the extent influence of NaOH concentration, reaction temperature, and stirring speed in a pressurized system on the resulting Na₂CO₃. Observations were conducted across various variables to obtain comprehensive data and information. NaOH concentrations were tested in the range of 10-30wt%, stirring speeds of 200 and 300 rpm, and reaction temperatures of 20–50°C, with fixed variables of system pressure equivalent to 9.8 kPa and CO₂ gas flow rate of 2 liters/minute. To ensure Na₂CO₃ formation, characterization was performed using Fourier Transform Infrared Spectroscopy (FTIR) and Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM). The results show that stirring speed, NaOH concentration, and system temperature can enhance the reaction rate and CO₂ diffusion in the solution, as evidenced by the increased production of Na₂CO₃. The highest conversion was achieved at a stirring speed of 300 rpm, NaOH concentration of 30wt%, and reaction temperature of 50°C, yielding 16.43 grams per 300 ml or equivalent to 54.77 grams per liter. FTIR and SEM test results were identical to the Na₂CO₃ product under optimal conditions. The method in this research offers an alternative process worth considering, as it can produce relatively high yields. However, further observations are still needed by combining NaOH concentration and CO₂ flow rate to make the process more effective, efficient, and economical.