Embracing the circular economy through hydrogen production from municipal solid waste using aspen plus: waste to energy

• Utilization of municipal solid waste (MSW) for sustainable fuel production. • Conversion of MSW to hydrogen (H 2 ) via gasification. • Optimization leads to a peak H 2 yield of 19 kg/hr for 160 kg/hr of MSW. • Economic analysis shows a 168,452.4 USD NPV, a 3.8-year pay-out period, and a strong ROI of 23%. • Fuel cell integration of MSW-derived H 2 generated 344.92 kW of power. Global solid waste production is currently estimated to be 2.01 billion tons annually. The quantity of waste generated globally is expected to double by 2050, which highlights the pressing need for all-encompassing solutions, including better waste management. By processing municipal solid waste (MSW) into energy, a dual-benefit strategy can address waste management concerns and reduce greenhouse gas emissions by providing a safer substitute for fossil fuels. This research presents a comprehensive simulation study using Aspen Plus and Hysys to investigate MSW gasification for Hydrogen (H 2 ) production. By optimizing crucial operating parameters such as gasifier temperature, WGS reactor temperature, steam-to-MSW ratio, and steam-to-CO ratio, a maximum H 2 yield of 19 kg/h was achieved from the gasification of a 160 kg/hr MSW sample. Several samples of MSW were employed to validate the model and identify the specific component of MSW accountable for generating a high H 2 yield, thereby leading to improved H 2 production. The study also includes a detailed design of a CO 2 capture unit employing Mono-ethanolamine (MEA) as the solvent, which demonstrated a remarkable CO 2 recovery efficiency exceeding 95%, making significant contributions towards the goal of achieving net-zero emissions. The produced H 2 from MSW was efficiently converted into electricity using a fuel cell, yielding an impressive power output of 344.92 kW. Moreover, the research undertook an economic analysis to assess the feasibility of MSW-based power generation. The economic evaluation indicated a favourable Net Present Value of 168,452.4 USD, a Payback Period of 3.8 years and a return on investment is 23%, affirming the project’s viability within acceptable limits. This study emphasises the project’s economic sustainability for eco-friendly waste management and alternative energy