Using response surface methodology for multi-objective optimization of an efficient/clean combined heating/power system based on sugarcane bagasse gasification for environmental sustainability

Abstract

Developing CHP (combined heat and power) systems-based biomass gasification is crucial for achieving environmental sustainability. These systems offer numerous profits, counting abridged greenhouse gas emissions, efficient energy utilization, and sustainable waste management. By investing in and promoting the adoption of biomass gasification-based CHP systems, it can be moved towards a more sustainable and greener energy future. In this regard, a clean CHP system is integrated by comprising a sugarcane bagasse gasifier, a proton conducting solid oxide fuel cell, a supercritical carbon dioxide Brayton cycle, and a heating recovery unit. The system performance is evaluated with respect to input variables from energy and environmental viewpoints. The integrated system performs more efficiently at lower equivalence ratios, higher temperatures, lower utilization factors, and higher pressure ratios. The efficiency initially improves with an increase in current density from 1400 A/m2 to 3000 A/m2, but starts to decline when the current density is pushed beyond this threshold to 5400 A/m2. According to the results, it has been concluded that the most favorable conditions for attaining the optimum goals are an equivalence ratio of 0.4, current density of 5400 A/m2, temperature of 1200 K, utilization factor of 0.7, and pressure ratio of 3.7. The best performance yields a power generation of 344.6 kW, heating generation of 3422.9 g/s, efficiency of 28.60%, and emissions of 1281 g/kWh.