Scenario assessment for producing methanol through carbon capture and utilization technologies considering regional characteristics

Abstract

Carbon capture and utilization (CCU) technology can be used to reduce carbon dioxide (CO2) emissions and mitigate climate change. CCU technology efficiencies and regional characteristics were evaluated by integrating process simulation and carbon footprint estimation to determine the optimal social implementation scenarios from the CO2 emissions reduction perspective. Methanol (MeOH) was chosen as the CCU product, and the energy efficiency of MeOH synthesis under various conditions was assessed. For social implementation scenarios, location of each technology, capacity of renewable energy and H2 manufacturing method, process configuration, CO2 source, and separation/recovery technology were used as conditions for the evaluation. Based on 11 cases with varying conditions, the partial oxidation and dry reforming of CH4 was determined to exhibit the greatest CO2 emission reduction potential. However, when considering renewable energy expansion, direct MeOH synthesis exhibited a greater CO2 reduction potential. Based on the results, CCU optimal social implementation scenarios evaluation guidelines were determined. These guidelines can be implemented at a large scale to determine the viability and effectiveness of CCU technologies.