Performance modelling of a carbon dioxide removal system for power plants

In this payer, a carbon dioxide removal and liquefaction system, which separates carbon dioxide from the flue gases of conventional power plants, was modelled. The system is based on an amine chemical absorption stripping system, followed by a liquefaction unit to treat the removed CO2 for transportation and storage. The effect of the main parameters on the absorption and stripping columns is presented. The main constraints set for the model are a capture efficiency of 90% and the use of an aqueous solution with a maximum 30% amine content by weight. The goal of this study is to remove the CO2 with minimum energy requirements for the process when it is integrated in a fossil fuel fired power plant. Results of the simulation are compared to experimental and literature data from feasibility studies and existing plants. The power plant to which the removal system is connected is a 320 MW steam power plant with steam reheat and 8 feedwater heaters. Two different fossil fuels were considered: coal and natural gas. The effect of the modifications necessary to integrate the CO2 removal system in the power plant is also studied, The capital cost of the removal and liquefaction system is estimated, and its influence on the cost of generated electricity is calculated. (C) 1999 Elsevier Science Ltd. All rights reserved.