Optimizing Ammonia Synthesis for Renewable Energy Utilization
Key Ideas
- A multi-objective optimization algorithm was used to enhance waste heat recovery in ammonia synthesis systems, leading to improved energy efficiency.
- Solid oxide electrolyzer cell-based systems showed the highest energy efficiency, while alkaline water electrolyzer systems had the shortest payback time.
- Utilizing low-temperature waste heat for domestic hot water production reduced the system's exergy loss and improved efficiency.
- Economic analysis revealed that in regions with electricity prices above 56.8 $/MWh, solid oxide electrolyzer cells for hydrogen production were more cost-effective than proton exchange membrane electrolyzer cells.
The study focuses on optimizing ammonia synthesis systems for renewable energy utilization, aiming to reduce the chemical industry's reliance on fossil energy and promote low-carbon transformation. By employing a multi-objective optimization algorithm, the research enhances waste heat recovery in ammonia synthesis systems based on different electrolyzers. Results indicate that improving system energy efficiency leads to increased ammonia production costs due to additional investment in auxiliary equipment. The energy efficiency of solid oxide electrolyzer cell-based systems outperformed others, with a range of 72.1% to 73.3%. Alkaline water electrolyzer systems showed the shortest payback time, ranging from 7.7 to 8.1 years. Exergy analysis highlighted the benefits of optimizing waste heat utilization, especially for domestic hot water production, resulting in reduced exergy loss and enhanced efficiency. Economic analysis demonstrated that solid oxide electrolyzer cells were more economical than proton exchange membrane electrolyzer cells in regions with electricity prices exceeding 56.8 $/MWh. Overall, the study provides valuable insights for designing and selecting technologies in ammonia synthesis processes under various resource conditions and technological maturity levels.
Topics
Utilities
Renewable Energy
Energy Efficiency
Ammonia Production
Electrolyzers
Chemical Industry
Investment Costs
Technology Selection
Exergy Analysis
Latest News