Energy penalty of CO2 capture for the Carbonation–Calcination Reaction (CCR) Process: Parametric effects and comparisons with alternative processes

Abstract

Process simulations of carbon capture technologies typically examine a limited number of cases and process variables. In many instances, processes are modeled under the most favorable conditions to improve process performance. With no universal standards defined for important parameters such as energy requirements for carbon dioxide compression and air separation, carbon dioxide purity, and base plant efficiency, great variability can exist during process analysis. This publication is presented in sequel to an earlier study on the Carbonation–Calcination Reaction (CCR) Process, which uses a cyclic calcium carbonate–calcium oxide–calcium hydroxide reaction scheme. While the first paper focused on the effect of internal parameters, this follow-up publication focuses on the external parameters of coal rank, base plant efficiency, heat transfer efficiency, compression energy, and air separation energy to determine the contribution of each to the overall energy penalty. In addition, novel integration options are introduced, effect of the CCR Process on boiler performance is analyzed, and a sensitivity analysis is performed. Specifically, the ASPEN Plus simulations focus on the difference between ideal and realistic conditions. The comprehensive simulations allow for a direct comparison of the CCR Process with other processes developed for post-combustion carbon dioxide removal from coal combustion under normalized conditions to remove the effect of external variables. The comparison indicates that the CCR Process always provides a lower energy penalty under similar operating conditions.