Project Info
Techno-economic analysis of green hydrogen and ammonia
John Jechura
jjechura@mines.edu
Ammonia is a major commodity chemical used primarily for fertilizer and it is a leading candidate for hydrogen delivery. Both its synthesis and decomposition are energy intensive, requiring extensive purification. There is a larger laboratory-oriented project that is developing catalytic membrane reactors (CMRs) to efficiently conduct these synthesis and decomposition reactions in a compact unit operation. The membranes could also be used for more energy efficient separations. This TEA aspect of the project is directed at quantifying the energy savings and economic benefits of CMRs over incumbent technology for applications such as hydrogen refueling stations and distributed ammonia production.
More Information:
Grand Challenge: Manage the nitrogen cycle
https://www.minesnewsroom.com/news/membranes-could-revolutionize-ammonia-hydrogen-production
http://inside.mines.edu/fs_home/cwolden/Wolden_Webpages/index.html
https://pubs.acs.org/doi/abs/10.1021/acssuschemeng.8b06065
Primary Contacts:
Myself, Rok Sitar (graduate student), Professor Colin Wolden
Student Preparation
Qualifications
A rising junior or senior in chemical engineering, interested in process simulation, analysis, and optimization. The student should preferably have some experience with Aspen Plus or HYSYS.
TIME COMMITMENT (HRS/WK)
5
SKILLS/TECHNIQUES GAINED
Advanced process modeling and techno-economic analysis as well as intimate familiarity with these major chemical processes.
MENTORING PLAN
The student would work in close consultation with a PhD candidate and there will be weekly meetings with the grad student and faculty advisor to assess progress and address issues that arise. There are also periodic meetings with the rest of the project team.
PREFERRED STUDENT STATUS
Sophomore
Junior