Theoretical assessment of ketone ammoximation production using thermodynamic, techno-economic, and life cycle environmental analyses

Abstract

An assessment method that combines thermodynamic, techno-economic, and life cycle environmental analyses was applied to estimate the theoretical production of ketone ammoximation. Based on the reaction kinetics of ketone ammoximation, the effects of operating conditions on the conversion and selectivity were explored. The maximum acetone conversion and acetone oxime selectivity were 95% and 98%, respectively. The total annual cost was 1.29 × 107 $/year. The exergy efficiency was found to be more than 19.9%. The product-refining unit was considered as the unit with the largest exergy loss contribution, and the exergy loss rate was 68.5%. The thermodynamic analysis of the acetone oxime production process showed that its exergy loss could be reduced. The environmental performance of the acetone ammoximation process was determined by life cycle analysis. The results of environmental indicators showed that the GWP, AP, and ODP of the ketone ammoximation are 84815.4 kg·eq. CO2, 91.58 kg·eq. SO2, and 1.6 × 10−10 kg·eq. R11, respectively. This combination of life cycle environment, thermodynamic and techno-economic evaluation provides a basis for the improvement and sustainable development of the production process of ketoxime.