(566j) Design of Optimized Carbon Dioxide Distribution Networks

This paper addresses modeling and optimization in carbon dioxide distribution networks with focus on utilizing optimal usage of carbon dioxide (CO2) from natural gas processing to be further processed in urea and methanol facilities. The data for the study is obtained largely from the existing ammonia plants that used steam methane reforming (SMR) process to produce hydrogen from natural gas, CO2 removal unit to capture and release CO2 from synthesis gas, and Habor Bosch process to produce ammonia. The multiple options of technologies and different configurations for utilizing carbon dioxide leads superstructure formulation for the problem. The main objective of this work is to provide a systematic framework that enables the consideration of many alternatives for the superstructure development, and then evaluate them. Sensitivity analysis involving a wide range of economic changes including the natural gas market prices and product prices will be performed to determine effective factors on decision-making relating to maximizing profits. Furthermore, the developed framework would be beneficial for the decision maker in the petrochemical industry to examine and optimally select the most cost effective and environmentally sustainable pathway in the carbon dioxide distribution networks.