Heliyon (Nov 2024)
Evaluating a computerized CCS model against current technologies to optimize environmental conservation for the Patuakhali power plant in Bangladesh
Abstract
Bangladesh's burgeoning focus on power generation has prompted the government to implement ambitious plans to install power plants. Among these developments is the impending operation of a 2∗660 MW coal-power station in Patuakhali, which will operate at the end of the month in December 2024. The proposed technology addresses concerns about CO2 emissions from a plant, potentially causing health issues and threatening plant biodiversity, but may present challenges compared to other technologies. Monoethanolamine (MEA), eutectic, and potassium taurate are potential solvents for CO2 capture in coal power plants due to their power absorption rate, capacity, and resilience to oxidative as well as thermal degradation. However, the significant challenges include corrosiveness, solvent loss, and high energy demand. By contrast, advanced research includes fixed and capture level reduction operating modes for carbon dioxide removal in natural gas combined cycle power plants, which is appropriate for use in natural gas combined cycle (NGCC) power plants where further research is needed for coal-fired power plants. The current generation of CO2 removal equipment, such as electrostatic precipitators (ESP) and flue gas desulphurization units (FGD), can remove CO2 at 99 % and 80 %–99 %, respectively. These devices have several serious drawbacks, including high water consumption, high costs, complex waste management, and operational errors. Additionally, equipment must be modified to increase efficiency and maximize heat rate. Notably, the moisture content in coal must be reduced from 0.6 to 5.9 %, heat must be recycled from 1.2 to 3.6 %, the steam turbine loop must be improved from 2 to 4.5 %, and advanced controls and sensors must be replaced or used up to 1.5 times.Our study, utilizing an established operational model sanctioned within the country and assessment, revealed an approximate daily carbon emission of 4.806 million kilograms from the power plant. Employing the Sundarbans' sequestration rate, we calculated a carbon tolerance level of around 4.2 million kilograms daily for the plant area. This study also highlights the potential of computerized carbon capture and storage (CCCS) technology to significantly reduce emissions in the Sundarbans, which have nearly zero levels. It compares a computerized CCS model with an existing model, estimating over 90 % reduction considering 10 % mechanical faults. Implementing a computerized system can reduce CO2 leaks, risks, operational efficiency, costs, and policy compliance. It ensures the security of carbon capture, transportation, and storage processes, balancing environmental preservation and economic development. Advanced technologies can reduce emissions to zero, and the captured carbon can be used for petroleum-enhanced oil recovery techniques, which are briefly described. It also offers economic benefits and carbon credits, improving air quality and ocean health by mitigating pollutants and CO2 emissions.
