Process Simulation and Automated Cost Optimization of CO2 Capture Using Aspen HYSYS

A standard process for CO2 capture based on absorption in mono ethanolamine (MEA) has been simulated and cost estimated with an equilibrium-based model Aspen HYSYSTM. The aim to calculate optimum parameters evaluate the possibility of automated optimization using a spreadsheet facility. An Excel is used dimensioning estimation specified process. New this work that Visual Basic Application (VBA) was automatically update installation factors next iteration calculations previous iteration. equipment obtained from In-plant Cost EstimatorTM, enhanced detailed factor (EDF) method estimate total investment cost. found as minimum calculated were 15 m absorber packing height, 9 °C approach temperature 2.2 m/s superficial gas velocity through absorber. With approach, iterative desorption processes can be performed automatically.