Novel distillation column retrofit combining energy integration and different tray designs

Abstract

This study introduced an innovative approach for energy integration of distillation columns using side heat exchangers and parastillation. The traditional installation of side heat exchangers typically demands additional stages or an increased reflux ratio to maintain the desired separation. Here, parastillation trays replace the conventional trays below the side-reboiler or above the side-condenser. These trays enable the inclusion of more theoretical trays within the same column height compared to conventional technique. This strategic implementation allows achieving the desired separation while using energy integration and keeping the column height and reflux ratio unchanged. A comprehensive case study demonstrates how this approach effectively surpasses the limitations of existing methods. Detailed analyses of thermodynamics and exergy loss emphasize its benefits. A practical case study focusing on bioethanol purification confirms its industrial viability. This pioneering technique presents a promising solution for sustainable chemical processes, particularly advantageous for energy-intensive processes such as dilute bioproduct separation.