Optimization of electrolysis and carbon capture processes for sustainable production of chemicals through Power-to-X

Abstract

This contribution presents the modelling and optimization strategy of the key intermediate processes in Power-to-X: water electrolysis and carbon capture. While the water electrolysis process is set to maximize the profit provided market data, the control structure in the capture process allows the production of the stoichiometric amount of carbon dioxide for further processing to methanol. The flexible operation of electrolyzers allowed efficient conversion of renewable energy into hydrogen with minimum grid compensation (around 4%). Furthermore, the capture process showed a favourable response to the fluctuating demand of CO2, with deviations lower than 1% over the simulated period. This optimization strategy represents a viable option for Power-to-X processes to cope with the fluctuations of volatile renewable energy.