Comprehensive analysis on the performance of an IGCC plant with a PSA process integrated for CO2 capture

The main goal of this paper is to provide a comprehensive overview on the performance of an integrated gasification combined cycle (IGCC) implementing CO2 capture through a pressure swing adsorption (PSA) process. The methodology for integrating a PSA process into the IGCC plant is first defined and then a full-plant model is developed. A reference case is outlined both for the PSA-based plant and for an absorption-based plant. Physical absorption is considered the benchmark technology for the application investigated. The full-plant model allowed an assessment of the potentials of PSA in this framework. The plant performance obtained was evaluated mainly in terms of energy penalty and CO2 capture efficiency. Several process configurations and operating conditions were tested. The results of these simulations demonstrated the influence of the PSA process on the overall performance and the possibility to shape it according to specific requirements. A sensitivity analysis on the adsorbent material was also carried out, aiming to establish the possible performance enhancements connected to advancements in the material. Improving the properties of the adsorbent demonstrated to have a strong impact not only on the CO2 separation process but also on the performance of the entire plant. However, nor modifications in the process or in the material were able to fully close the gap with absorption. In this sense a synergetic approach for addressing further performance enhancements is outlined, based on the close collaboration between process engineering and material science. (C) 2015 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.