Techno-economic analysis and life cycle assessment of poly (butylene succinate) production using food waste

In this present study, the production of poly (butylene succinate) (PBS) from food waste was investigated and critical factors were evaluated. The economic feasibility of the process was investigated, as well as the minimum selling price (MSP) of PBS and sensitivity analysis of economic factors based on critical input parameters. 1,4-butanediol price and solvent usage in PBS purification significantly impacted economics during the process. In this process, the MSP of PBS was 3.5 $/kg. The Monte Carlo simulation technique was used to determine the uncertainty in the MSP of PBS. The plant's return on investment (ROI), payback period, internal rate of return (IRR), and net present value (NPV) were 15.79 %, 6.33 years, 16.48 %, and 58,879,000 USD, respectively. The environmental impact factors were evaluated. The results showed the GHG emission from the process was 5.19 kg CO2-eq/kg of PBS which is low than conventional PBS production.

Automated summary

This study investigated the production of PBS from food waste and evaluated critical factors. The economic feasibility of the process was assessed, including the MSP of PBS and sensitivity analysis. The 1,4-butanediol price and solvent usage significantly affected economics. The MSP of PBS was 3.5 $/kg in this process. Monte Carlo simulation determined the uncertainty in the MSP. The plant's ROI, payback period, IRR, and NPV were 15.79%, 6.33 years, 16.48%, and 58,879,000 USD, respectively. Environmental impact factors were evaluated, showing lower GHG emissions compared to conventional PBS production.