A model has been developed to predict the CO, capacity of amine-based solvent systems as well as the enthalpy associated with absorption/desorption. This model can be used to accurately predict the behavior of well-characterized solvent systems under a range of different conditions. Alternatively, the model can be used to estimate the properties of less well-defined systems as part of an initial rapid screening procedure. Investigation into the effects of varying amine basicity and degree of carbamate formation indicates that there is considerable room for improvement on the standard MEA (monoethanolamine) system in terms of both capture capacity and enthalpy Of CO2 desorption.