Accelerating the net-zero economy with CO2-hydrogenated formic acid production: Process development and pilot plant demonstration
Chang-Soo Kim, Kwangho Park, H. Lee, J. Im, Denis Usosky, Kyungjae Tak, Damdae Park, Won‐Suk Chung, Donggu Han, Jieun Yoon, Heewon Lee, Hyunyoung Kim, Margareth, Juyeong Jung, Da Hye Won, Chun‐Jae Yoo, Ki Bong Lee, Kwang‐Deog Jung, Ung Lee
Abstract
A process capable of large-scale formic acid (FA) production via CO 2 hydrogenation is presented. This study provides the key strategies for use in developing a viable process for continuous operation. Based on the proposed strategies, a pilot-scale process with a capacity of 10 kg/day was constructed. The continuous operability of the process is demonstrated via pilot plant operation for >100 h, achieving a CO 2 conversion rate of 82% and producing FA with a high purity of >92 wt %. Techno-economic analysis and life cycle assessment results of the validated simulation model indicate that the proposed process significantly reduces the level of global warming impact by 42% while cutting the production cost by 37%, compared with the conventional process for producing FA. The contents of this study provide a comprehensive manual for developing a viable CO 2 utilization solution, showing economic profitability as well as environmental impact reduction.