Process simulation of a fluidized-bed catalytic cracking process for the conversion of algae oil to biokerosene

• Published in: Fuel processing technology Vol. 167; pp. 582 - 607
• Main Authors: Pujan, Robert, Hauschild, Stephanie, Gröngröft, Arne
• Format: Journal Article
• Language: English
• Published: Amsterdam Elsevier B.V 01.12.2017; Elsevier Science Ltd
• Subjects: Algae; Alternative fuels; Aromatic compounds; Biodiesel fuels; Catalytic converters; Catalytic cracking; Computer simulation; Energy conversion efficiency; Fluid catalytic cracking; Fluidized bed combustion; Fluidized beds; Greenhouse effect; Greenhouse gases; Jet engine fuels; Kerosene; Natural gas; Simulation; Studies; Turbines; Waste heat recovery; United States > US
• ISSN: 0378-3820; 1873-7188
• DOI: 10.1016/j.fuproc.2017.07.029

The ambitious targets of the aviation industry to reduce greenhouse gas emissions require the use of biofuels in this transport sector in the short and medium term. While five biogenic aviation turbine fuels have already been certified by the American Society for Testing and Materials (ASTM D7566), the search for suitable alternatives continues, seeking higher possible blending ratios or better fuel qualities. Fluidized-bed catalytic cracking (FCC) of algae oil, followed by hydrotreatment of intermediates, could be such a potential option. This conversion concept has several potential advantages, such as aromatic compounds in the biokerosene and the use of a non-food biogenic oil as feedstock. Material and energy balances are obtained from flowsheet simulation using ASPEN Plus®, with the aim to assess the efficiency of the process. The simulation model contains all relevant conversion and separation steps, and auxiliary components such as a steam reformer and a furnace. Simulation parameters for all unit operations were based on current literature to represent the state-of-the-art of the involved technologies. Additionally, the process was optimized by heat integration and waste heat utilization. The established simulation model is proposed to serve as a concept study and basis for the implementation of future experimental results and perceptions. With an energy efficiency of 95% and a biokerosene yield of 41%, the results emphasize the potential of this conversion process. Graphical abstract [Display omitted] •Algae oil catalytic cracking and subsequent hydrotreatment were simulated in ASPEN Plus®.•Process simulation modelling was based on pilot scale (hourly input of 100kg algae oil).•Fuels composition and process structure were modelled with high level of detail, based on respective literature sources.•Due to heat integration and pinch analysis, the process achieves an energy efficiency of 95%.•The biokerosene yield is at 41% and contains >20% (w/w) aromatic compounds.