The Impact of Process Heat on the Decarbonisation Potential of Offshore Installations by Hybrid Energy Systems

An opportunity to decarbonise the offshore oil and gas sector lies in the integration of renewable energy sources with energy storage in a hybrid energy system (HES). Such concept enables maximising the exploitation of carbon-free renewable power, while minimising the emissions associated with conventional power generation systems such as gas turbines. Offshore plants, in addition to electrical and mechanical power, also require process heat for their operation. Solutions that provide low-emission heat in parallel to power are necessary to reach a very high degree of decarbonisation. This paper investigates different options to supply process heat in offshore HES, while the electric power is mostly covered by a wind turbine. All HES configurations include energy storage in the form of hydrogen tied to proton exchange membrane (PEM) electrolysers and fuel cells stacks. As a basis for comparison, a standard configuration relying solely on a gas turbine and a waste heat recovery unit is considered. A HES combined with a waste heat recovery unit to supply heat proved efficient when low renewable power capacity is integrated but unable to deliver a total CO2 emission reduction higher than around 40%. Alternative configurations, such as the utilization of gas-fired or electric heaters, become more competitive at large installed renewable capacity, approaching CO2 emission reductions of up to 80%.

Understanding and Correlating of Chemical Engineering Thermodynamics I and Process Heat Transfer through Integrated Project

The development of engineering education plays a significant role in creating a competency base for engineering students to be excellent in engineering practice as well as other professional skills such as communication, teamwork and leadership. Project-Based Learning via Integrated Project entitled Heat Recovery from Ammonia Synthesis Reactor for Power Generation was introduced as a new learning approach for First Year First Semester Chemical Engineering student to replace the conventional learning approach via lecture. This integrated project is a hybrid of two core Chemical Engineering subjects for First Year students: Chemical Engineering Thermodynamics I and Process Heat Transfer. This integrated project aims to evaluate students' ability to relate two different subjects when learning in the same semester and apply them to the same application. This integrated project is expected to enhance students' learning curve and ensure that the output of this study can be achieved in a consistent effort and timely manner. Assessments in the form of formative (reflection and peer review) and summative (final report) are applied to the students via individual and group. Based on the reflection's analysis, 50% of the students mentioned that the project is very challenging; meanwhile, only 30% agreed that they could relate the project with both subjects even though it is complex and challenging. Despite that, 70% of the students stated that their learning goal is achievable. They were able to view the industrial application, especially the heat exchanger application, through this project. Overall, 90% agreed that they achieved this integrated project's objectives: to relate two different subjects when learning in the same semester and apply them to the same application. Hence, it is noteworthy to highlight that this integrated project is carefully mapped. The new learning approach via Project-Based Learning brought positive outcome towards the students' learning experiences, skills and understanding.

Technology of Production of Binder Modifying Nanoadditives

The article deals with the issue concerning production of a dry nanoadditive. In order to achieve this goal, an aqueous solution of polyvinyl acetate dispersion (PVAD) and nanotubes, or lime slaking nanoparticles is used. As a result of the hydration process heat is released, the polyvinyl acetate emulsion forms particles with nanotubes in their composition. During the study performed an optimal ratio of all components was established: quicklime + PVAD-CNT – 71-73% and 0.01-0.018 CNT; “Megalith” – 21-25%; ammonium salt – 4-6%, as well as the optimal amount of the complex additive, which is in the range of 1-1.5% by weight of calcium sulfate hemihydrate. Later on the resulting nanoadditive can be used to modify binders or other materials