Gegenstand der Erfindung ist eine Vorrichtung (1) und ein Verfahren zur Abreicherung von sauren Gasen, insbesondere CO2, aus Gasgemischen (3), insbesondere Atemgas, unter Verwendung von Hydroxid-Verbindungen (6) und Feuchtigkeit aufnehmenden Substanzen in Form von superabsorbierendem Polymer oder Vermiculit (7).Device comprises an absorber comprising carbon dioxide absorbing substances including at least one hydroxide compound and water-absorbing substances including super absorbent polymer and/or vermiculite, where hydroxide compound and super absorbent polymer and/or vermiculite forms the absorber mass and are directly in contact with each other. Independent claims are also included for: (1) a breathing circuit device, comprising the device, where the absorber is a part of replaceable or refillable cartridge and (2) removing acid gases, preferably carbon dioxide from a gas mixture, preferably a gas stream by using the device or the breathing circuit device.