Modeling and Simulation of Novel Bi- and Tri-reforming Processes for the Production of Renewable Methanol

Abstract

Flue gases from coal, gas, or oil-fired power plants, as well as many heavy industries, are claimed as primary sources of CO₂ emissions. Although CO₂ capture and storage can play a role in decreasing CO₂, its cost is preventing it from the broad application. Converting flue gases into methanol offers a change to mitigate CO₂ emissions and a way to produce useful chemicals. In this study, two novel technologies including bi- and tri-reforming are analyzed for methanol production from CO₂. The environmental and economic results are examined as two significant factors for green design. Preliminary evaluations pointed out that the reforming-based routes can be considered as a hopeful method for CO₂ treatment during the transition stage from a carbon-based- to the carbon-free program.