Research | Ph.D.Engg. - abdullahalmoinee

Adsorption and Separation Lab

Advisor: Dr. F Rezaei

Department of Chemical and Biochemical Engineering, Missouri S&T, USA

Research Outline:

ECO-CBET: GOALI: CAS-Climate: Accelerating the Decarbonization of the Cement Industry via CO2 Capture and Conversion Integration

Abstract:

The primary objective of this project is to develop and implement an innovative, integrated, and adaptable CO2 capture-conversion system that facilitates the decarbonization of the cement industry. Additionally, this system aims to produce valuable cement supplements by utilizing waste CO2. As we strive towards a net-zero emission future and embrace a circular economy, waste CO2 present in industrial flue gases holds great potential for generating a wide range of value-added products.

In order to reduce CO2 emissions in the United States by half by 2030, it is crucial to invest in industry sectors, such as cement, that cannot currently shift entirely to carbon-free energy sources. The cement industry in the U.S. currently produces approximately 90 million tons of cement annually, resulting in nearly equivalent CO2 emissions. While the invention of eco-efficient alternative cements capable of completely replacing Portland cement remains a challenge, a promising strategy for decarbonizing the cement industry in the near future is the transformation of Portland cement into blended cement.

This project aims to capture CO2 from cement flue gas and utilize it as a renewable feedstock for producing blended cement through carbon-negative processing of industrial waste. The proposed capture-conversion technology will be integrated into a cement production unit, leveraging the CO2 emissions from the cooler end of the kiln and utilizing waste materials and waste heat from the cement plant to drive the CO2 conversion process.

By embracing the principles of convergence science, the project aims to advance scientific, technological, and socio-economic knowledge, addressing challenges related to: 1) CO2 capture, 2) CO2 conversion, 3) process systems engineering and integration (TEA), and 4) environmental sustainability assessment. These advancements will expedite the decarbonization of the cement industry.

This project holds the potential to create new opportunities for achieving net-zero CO2 emissions from the cement industry, simultaneously generating valuable cement supplements from waste resources such as alkali industrial wastes (e.g., off-specification coal ashes). Collaboration with the Ash Grove Cement Company will play a vital role in this endeavor.

ECO-CBET: Environmental Convergence Opportunities in Chemical, Bioengineering, Environemntal, and Transport Systems

GOALI: Grant Opportunities for Academic Liaison with Industry

CAS: Critical Aspects of Sustainability

Research Outline:

Integrating CO2 Capture and Utilization in the Fischer-Tropsch to Olefins Process: A Techno-Economic Analysis

Abstract:

The direct conversion of captured CO2 to light olefins using the Fischer-Tropsch to Olefin (FTO) process coupled with the reverse water gas shift reaction (RWGS) shows great potential for producing valuable chemicals and reducing greenhouse gas emissions. This research focuses on utilizing CO2-containing flue gas from a 500 MW power plant as a carbon source, employing adsorptive capture and hydrogenation reactions via FTO to generate light olefins. Two approaches, namely separated capture and utilization, and an integrated approach utilizing integrated adsorptive reactors, were compared using a comprehensive techno-economic analysis. The integrated process demonstrated higher cost-effectiveness compared to the separated process, providing feasible cost estimates for the production of 1 ton of light olefins and CO2 capture and utilization. The separated process achieved an impressive CO2 recovery rate of 96%, but incurred an energy penalty of approximately 26%. To assess the impact of operational parameters, material properties, and downstream treatment units, a sensitivity analysis was performed, considering factors such as pressure, temperature, H2/CO2 molar ratio, catalyst and adsorbent activity and deactivation rate, heat integration, and potential downstream treatment units. This research highlights the promising potential of the direct conversion of captured CO2 to light olefins through the FTO process coupled with RWGS. The integrated approach proved to be economically advantageous, offering valuable insights for the development and optimization of large-scale CO2 conversion projects. The findings underscore the importance of considering various operational parameters and material properties to maximize efficiency and minimize costs in CO2 capture and utilization processes.

Research Outline:

Electrification Prospects for Adsorptive Separation: Challenges and Opportunities

Abstract:

The significance of sustainable development in terms of mitigating energy and environmental catastrophes necessitates a shift from fossil fuels to renewable energy sources. This transition is crucial for curbing global emissions and reducing dependence on fossil fuels. Carbon dioxide and other greenhouse gases (GHGs) such as methane, nitrous oxide, and fluorinated gases play a pivotal role in addressing these alarming issues through a transition towards carbon-neutral renewables. The capture of these gases offers a robust response to climate change, energy crises, pollution, and environmental instability. Adosoprtive separation processes emerge as efficient and feasible solutions that sustain hope on the horizon by enabling the utilization of renewable energy sources while managing the declining availability of finite resources. These processes present realistic systems powered solely by green energy, significantly reducing energy consumption to meet the ever-increasing demands. Embracing adosoprtive separation processes not only enhances national security and economic viability but also promotes human health and environmental integrity. This emphasizes the critical importance of sustainable development and the urgent need to transition to renewable energy sources. Adosoprtive separation processes offer a promising avenue for realizing greener and more economically viable solutions. By harnessing the power of renewable energy, these processes address the challenges posed by climate change, energy scarcity, and environmental degradation. They contribute to global efforts in reducing greenhouse gas emissions and mitigating the adverse effects of fossil fuel dependency. The adoption of adosoprtive separation processes holds significant potential in ensuring a sustainable and resilient future for our planet, fostering both environmental and socio-economic well-being.

Research Outline:

LuSTR21: Lunar Regolith Particle Separation via Production of Calcium and Aluminum: A Combined Electrostatic and Kinetic Modeling Approach

Abstract:

A fluid-based simulation is intended to model a comprehensive design for the separation of lunar regolith dust particles under flow conditions, with the motion of charged dust grains being primarily driven by electric fields generated by electrodes. To solve for the electric fields caused by biased electrodes, we can employ a recently developed immersed-finite-element (IFE) based Poisson solver. Our modeling approach will be "electrostatic and kinetic," involving the solution of Poisson's equation for the electric field induced by biased electrodes and the tracking of the motions of a large number of charged grains under the influence of both the electric field and gravity. Additionally, to predict system performance in space, we will analyze particle motions and conduct numerical calculations using a three-dimensional hard-sphere model of the distinct element method which utilizes a fluid/continuum modeling approach.

LuSTR21: Lunar Surface Technology Research