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Simulation-Optimization Framework for Synthesis and Design of Natural Gas Downstream Utilization Networks

Author

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  • Saad A. Al-Sobhi

    (Department of Chemical Engineering, University of Waterloo, Waterloo, ON N2L 3G1, Canada
    Department of Chemical Engineering, Qatar University, Doha 2713, Qatar)

  • Ali Elkamel

    (Department of Chemical Engineering, University of Waterloo, Waterloo, ON N2L 3G1, Canada
    Department of Chemical Engineering, The Petroleum Institute, Khalifa University of Science & Technology, Abu Dhabi 2533, UAE)

  • Fatih S. Erenay

    (Department of Management Sciences, University of Waterloo, Waterloo, ON N2L 3G1, Canada)

  • Munawar A. Shaik

    (Department of Chemical Engineering, The Petroleum Institute, Khalifa University of Science & Technology, Abu Dhabi 2533, UAE
    Department of Chemical Engineering, Indian Institute of Technology Delhi, Hauz Khas, New Delhi 110016, India)

Abstract

Many potential diversification and conversion options are available for utilization of natural gas resources, and several design configurations and technology choices exist for conversion of natural gas to value-added products. Therefore, a detailed mathematical model is desirable for selection of optimal configuration and operating mode among the various options available. In this study, we present a simulation-optimization framework for the optimal selection of economic and environmentally sustainable pathways for natural gas downstream utilization networks by optimizing process design and operational decisions. The main processes (e.g., LNG, GTL, and methanol production), along with different design alternatives in terms of flow-sheeting for each main processing unit (namely syngas preparation, liquefaction, N 2 rejection, hydrogen, FT synthesis, methanol synthesis, FT upgrade, and methanol upgrade units), are used for superstructure development. These processes are simulated using ASPEN Plus V7.3 to determine the yields of different processing units under various operating modes. The model has been applied to maximize total profit of the natural gas utilization system with penalties for environmental impact, represented by CO 2eq emission obtained using ASPEN Plus for each flowsheet configuration and operating mode options. The performance of the proposed modeling framework is demonstrated using a case study.

Suggested Citation

  • Saad A. Al-Sobhi & Ali Elkamel & Fatih S. Erenay & Munawar A. Shaik, 2018. "Simulation-Optimization Framework for Synthesis and Design of Natural Gas Downstream Utilization Networks," Energies, MDPI, vol. 11(2), pages 1-19, February.
    • Handle: RePEc:gam:jeners:v:11:y:2018:i:2:p:362-:d:130148
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    References listed on IDEAS

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    1. Thomas, Sydney & Dawe, Richard A, 2003. "Review of ways to transport natural gas energy from countries which do not need the gas for domestic use," Energy, Elsevier, vol. 28(14), pages 1461-1477.
    2. Ramberg, David J. & Henry Chen, Y.H. & Paltsev, Sergey & Parsons, John E., 2017. "The economic viability of gas-to-liquids technology and the crude oil–natural gas price relationship," Energy Economics, Elsevier, vol. 63(C), pages 13-21.
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    Cited by:

    1. Noor Yusuf & Tareq Al-Ansari, 2023. "Current and Future Role of Natural Gas Supply Chains in the Transition to a Low-Carbon Hydrogen Economy: A Comprehensive Review on Integrated Natural Gas Supply Chain Optimisation Models," Energies, MDPI, vol. 16(22), pages 1-33, November.
    2. Ali Elkamel, 2018. "Energy Production Systems," Energies, MDPI, vol. 11(10), pages 1-4, September.

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