Process Simulation and Energy Optimization for the Production of Acetone via Dehydrogenation of Isopropyl Alcohol

Abstract

In this study, the modelling, optimization, and future recommendations for the conversion of isopropyl alcohol into acetone and hydrogen using ASPEN HYSYS V11 are the primary focuses. In order to guarantee that the model is accurate, the results of the simulation are evaluated under stringent conditions against a reference research paper. A successful convergence in material and energy balances is demonstrated by the base case simulation, which makes use of the Peng Robinson TWU fluid package. This demonstrates that the basic process is viable. When conducting economic analysis with CapCost, favorable impacts on cash flow characteristics are shown to be the result. The subsequent integration and optimization of heat, which was guided by pinch analysis using HENSAD, resulted in the construction of an effective heat exchanger network, which in turn led to improvements in economic parameters. At the end of the study, proposals for the future are presented. These recommendations include enhanced kinetics modelling, dynamic simulation, process intensification, integration of renewable energy, waste heat recovery, and initiatives for continual improvement. The purpose of these recommendations is to improve the overall efficiency of the isopropyl alcohol conversion process, as well as its sustainability and economic competitiveness.