Development of an Aspen Plus® Model for the Process of Hydrogen Production by Black Liquor Electrolysis

The electrolysis of black liquor (BL) has emerged as a new form to valorize this byproduct from the pulp and paper industry. BL produces green fuel, hydrogen, lignin, high added-value compound. In opposition water electrolysis, symmetric process with two different gases produced at electrodes, hydrogen oxygen, is seen an asymmetric process, only gas generated (at cathode), while solid lignin electrodeposited anode. present work intended develop model in Aspen Plus® simulate consequently evaluate performance electrolyzer. does not include package for electrolyzers, so it was necessary use Custom Modeler (ACM) tool. developed ACM valid following conditions: nickel electrodes 2 cm interelectrode distance, cell voltage between 1.5 V 2.0 V, temperatures 25 35 °C batch operation 65 continuous operation. Sensitivity analysis demonstrated that optimum working temperature °C, whereas 45 An economic carried out, calculating real gross profit (RGP) electricity cost. A kW electrolyzer 80 cells active area 0.3 m2 simulated. For operation, RGP values 1056 €/year 1867 worst best scenario were obtained, respectively, cost 1431 €/year. 2064 3648 scenario, 2967 costs.