(94b) The Potential Impact of the Energy Transition on Process Plants and in Particular Distillation Units

Izak Nieuwoudt & Tony Cai

Fractionation Research Inc.

The fear of climate change and its impact, and the probable correlation with anthropogenic greenhouse emissions are driving an energy source transition that is affecting the chemical process industries. With distillation being the largest energy consumer in these industries, these factors are starting to have an impact on how distillation is perceived. Technologies that can reduce the energy consumption of separation processes can make a significant contribution to the decarbonization of distillation units. Driving these separation processes with low-carbon energy sources will further address the concerns. In this presentation the authors will discuss high efficiency distillation equipment, reduced energy consumption distillation systems, the use of alternative energy sources and the potential overall impact on the decarbonization of separation systems employing distillation.

Keywords: Distillation, Energy, Decarbonization, Efficiency