Advances in zero liquid discharge multigeneration plants: A novel approach for integrated power generation, supercritical desalination, and salt production

• Published in: Energy conversion and management Vol. 307; p. 118352
• Main Authors: Moharram, Nour A., Konsowa, Abdelaziz H., Shehata, Ali I., El-Maghlany, Wael M.
• Format: Journal Article
• Language: English
• Published: Elsevier Ltd 01.05.2024
• Subjects: Multigeneration plants; Seawater mining; Supercritical desalination; Zero liquid discharge; Zero liquid discharge; Multigeneration plants; Seawater mining; Supercritical desalination
• ISSN: 0196-8904; 1879-2227
• DOI: 10.1016/j.enconman.2024.118352

•Implementing a novel multigeneration plant operating at supercritical conditions.•Concurrent production of products while ensuring zero liquid discharge.•A reliable case study certifies the system's feasibility and economic viability.•Annual output of 1650000 m3 of water, 302.5 GWh of power, and 64,845 tons of salt.•Achieving competitive levelized costs of 0.38 $/m3, 0.07 $/kWh, and 20 $/ton. In light of the escalating worldwide demand for energy and water resources, the imperative for developing sustainable multigeneration systems has gained prominence in recent research and development. This study aims to investigate the feasibility and performance of a novel multigeneration plant operating at supercritical conditions to simultaneously generate freshwater, power, and dry salt as a by-product while eliminating liquid discharge. This approach offers a promising solution to address the interconnected challenges of energy and water sustainability. The theory contends that combining supercritical desalination with power generation increases energy efficiency and water production rates, surpassing conventional systems. Therefore, a model is developed employing a supercritical once-through boiler capable of supplying the necessary heat duty required for steam generation from the integrated desalination plant, producing power. Additionally, multiple heat exchangers and flash separators are implemented, enhancing freshwater productivity and obtaining dry salt, eliminating the need for brine waste disposal. A thorough sensitivity analysis is conducted utilizing a robust model developed on Aspen HYSYS to ascertain the optimal operational parameters of the proposed plant. The findings of this study underscore the potential of concurrent production of 1.65 million m3/year of freshwater, 302.5 GWh of electricity, and 64,845 ton/year of dry salt for 0.38 $/m3, 0.07 $/kWh, and 0.02 $/kg, respectively. In conclusion, this research highlights the prospects of revolutionary progress in multigeneration systems for sustainable development.