Process simulation of the syngas-to-aromatics processes: Technical economics aspects

Direct conversion of syngas-to-aromatics (STA) is an increasing vital catalytic field that still contains much uncertainty. For the first time, we report the process simulation of STA via direct routes and indirect STA (syngas first to produce methanol, then methanol being converted into aromatics). The conversion of CO was selected as the sensitivity indicator for the evaluation of energy consumption and economic aspects. A low conversion of CO resulted in a low yield (and low partial pressure) of aromatics and an increasing difficulty in separating them from unreacted syngas and light hydrocarbons. The associated increased investment and operational costs were analyzed quantitatively. Direct STA shows obvious advantages in operational cost savings and in construction costs when the conversion of CO was higher than 66-72% when compared with the indirect STA route. The simulation results provide new insights into the upper limits of the process of developing catalysts. (C) 2019 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.