Masters Theses

Keywords and Phrases

Alternative fuels; Biomass gasfication; Oil shale; Optimization; Pyrolysis; Thermochemical

Abstract

"This thesis focuses on design and analysis of two major chemical processes using computer simulation which performs a steady state computation. The objective is to design processes using Aspen simulation to establish optimum operating conditions by performing various simulation runs which are challenging to execute at lab scale.

Increasing energy needs and decline of global oil prices has shifted our focus on commercially developing unconventional and renewable resources. Commercialization of any process relies on developing a process model that identifies different process parameters by performing a steady state mass and heat balance. Aspen simulation is considered an effective process modeling tool which can predict system behavior and optimize the overall process.

This thesis showcases an Aspen process model of Ex-Situ Oil Shale process and Biomass Gasification process. General approach towards design for these processes are not much different as they are thermochemical processes. This work identified the critical impact of bed temperature on crude production for oil shale process, while the impact of oxygen flow rate on temperature profile of the system and composition of syngas produced was established in biomass gasification model.

A multi-zonal kinetic based model was developed for both processes. These recommended models were designed to simulate a real system which can be modified for different operating settings and facilities. Aspen predicted values were further validated with experimental results from real systems and published data"--Abstract, page iv.

Advisor(s)

Smith, Joseph D.

Committee Member(s)

Al-Dahhan, Muthanna H.
Ludlow, Douglas K.

Department(s)

Chemical and Biochemical Engineering

Degree Name

M.S. in Chemical Engineering

Publisher

Missouri University of Science and Technology

Publication Date

Spring 2016

Journal article titles appearing in thesis/dissertation

  • Optimizing reactor parameters to achieve higher process yield in ex-situ oil shale process
  • Multi-zonal modeling of biomass gasification using Aspen

Pagination

xii, 80 pages

Note about bibliography

Includes bibliographical references.

Rights

© 2016 Anand Alembath, All rights reserved.

Document Type

Thesis - Open Access

File Type

text

Language

English

Subject Headings

Chemical process control -- Simulation methodsBiomass gasificationOil-shales

Thesis Number

T 10863

Electronic OCLC #

952590098

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