Enhanced process for energy efficient extraction of 1,3-butadiene from a crude C4 cut

1,3-butadiene is an essential platform chemical for producing rubberlike polymers, which extracted from C4 hydrocarbons that are produced through steam cracking. The current state-of-the-art technology the BASF process uses thermally coupled extractive distillation (ED) followed by two columns. However, requires high temperature heat input, thus cost hot utility and reduces possibility integration. To solve these issues, this study proposes novel enhancements: ED part modified with intermediate heating classic columns replaced a pump assisted dividing wall column (DWC). Rigorous simulations were carried out in Aspen Plus typical process. reboiler system designed to maximize possible recovery. results show DWC able reduce energy intensity of section 54.8% total annual costs 29.9%. Additionally, 8.3% while also reducing CAPEX due need smaller recycle compressor. In combination, modifications achieve up 21% reduction overall process, payback time 1 year.