Integration of IGCC and methane reforming process for power generation with CO₂ capture

IGCC is a power generation technology which represents a higher thermal efficiency with large scale implementation of CO₂ capture. In this study, two IGCC process models have been evaluated in terms of both the process performance and economics with CO₂ capture. Case 1 is based on the conventional IGCC process, whereas, case 2 presents an idea of integrating methane reforming process with an IGCC technology. The high enthalpy steam generated during coal slurry gasification process is used to assist the reforming process for H₂ generation. The integration of IGCC with methane reforming process not only supplies the heat required for the endothermic reforming process but also increases the heating value of the resulting syngas. This concept also provides an opportunity for process intensification since shared water gas shift reactors and CO₂ capture units will suffice the process needs. In this study, two design cases have been evaluated in terms of their performance, economics and levelized cost of electricity. The integrated process produces high value syngas by making use of heat available from the gasification process. The results show that by integrating the methane reforming process with the coal based IGCC plant improves the overall performance compared to the standalone process design.