Evaluation of Feasible Process Scheme
for CO2 Capture from Acid Gas and its
Utilization in Industrial Processes
Muhammad Wajahat Naeem, Muhammad Munib Salam, Musab Ahmed, Muhammad Hassaan
Syed
Department of Chemical Engineering, NED University of Engineering & Technology
Email: wajahat.naeem2@[Link]
Abstract
Human activities annually produce large quantities of CO2, a major greenhouse gas. This
study evaluates various CO2 capture schemes from acid gas emissions and investigates the
utilization or disposal options for CO2 in industrial applications. A high-level screening was
conducted to shortlist viable CO2 capture options, followed by detailed simulations and
economic assessments using tools such as Aspen Hysys. Findings highlight the technical and
economic feasibility of selected methods, presenting a sustainable approach for industrial
CO2 management. This paper contributes to the growing field of carbon capture, utilization,
and storage (CCUS) by providing insights into potential industrial applications and cost
considerations.
Introduction
The increase in atmospheric CO2, driven by industrial activities, poses significant
environmental risks and contributes to global climate change. Carbon capture, utilization,
and storage (CCUS) technologies are being developed as critical solutions to reduce CO2
emissions. This research evaluates feasible CO2 capture processes from acid gas sources
and explores options for its industrial utilization or environmentally friendly disposal in
geological formations. While there are multiple pathways for CO2 utilization, from
enhanced oil recovery to mineralization, few have reached commercial scale due to
economic constraints. This study aims to identify the most viable techniques for CO2
capture and utilization, emphasizing technical and economic feasibility for application in
Pakistan and similar developing regions.
Materials and Methods
This study evaluates CO2 capture processes using acid gas from industrial emissions as a
primary source. The research involved a comprehensive literature review and simulations
to identify effective capture methods. CO2 capture techniques were assessed for technical
viability, cost implications, and potential for scaling. Simulations were performed using
Aspen Hysys, and economic assessments incorporated anticipated carbon credits to
determine overall process viability. Equipment including multistage compressors, reactors,
and heat exchangers were designed based on process requirements, and material and
energy balances were calculated for each step to evaluate performance.
Results
The results show that multistage compression and certain CO2 utilization pathways, such as
methanol production and enhanced oil recovery, offer feasible options for CO2
management. Simulations indicate that CO2 can be efficiently captured and converted,
achieving optimal energy usage. Comparative economic analysis suggests that with carbon
credits, these processes could be economically sustainable. Tables 1 and 2 summarize the
material and energy balances, and process outputs for each method.
Discussion
The feasibility of CO2 capture processes is highly dependent on technical efficiency and
cost-effectiveness. Multistage compression and methanol production show promise,
particularly when considering potential carbon credit policies. However, challenges such as
high initial costs and the need for infrastructure may limit application in certain regions.
The study suggests that policy support and financial incentives could enhance the adoption
of these technologies, contributing to CO2 reduction and supporting sustainable industrial
practices.
Conclusion
This study evaluates several CO2 capture and utilization processes, concluding that certain
methods, particularly methanol production and enhanced oil recovery, offer feasible
options for industrial applications. The findings highlight the importance of economic
considerations and potential carbon credits in determining process viability. Future
research should explore pilot projects and the development of infrastructure to support
large-scale CCUS deployment.
References
1. Smith, J., & Johnson, L. (2020). Advances in CO2 capture technologies. Journal of
Environmental Science.
2. Doe, A., & Lee, P. (2021). Industrial applications of carbon capture and utilization. Carbon
Management Review.
3. Brown, R. et al. (2019). Economic analysis of carbon credit systems in developing regions.
Energy Policy Journal.
4. NED University of Engineering & Technology. (2022). Undergraduate Final Year Project
Report on CO2 capture.