Analisa Termodinamika Proses Konversi Tandan Kosong Kelapa Sawit (TKKS) Menjadi Syngas Kaya Hidrogen Melalui Sistem Pirolisis yang Terkoneksi Gasifikasi Menggunakan Simulasi Aspen Plus

Abstract

The growing demand for energy has encouraged the development of renewable energy technologies, including the utilization of biomass waste such as Empty Fruit Bunches (EFB). This study aims to analyze the thermodynamic conversion process of EFB into hydrogen-rich syngas through a pyrolysis system connected with gasification and a Steam Methane Reformer (SMR), using Aspen Plus simulation software. The simulation was conducted under varying gasification reactor pressures (1–10 atm) and temperatures (600–1000 °C) to determine their effects on syngas composition. Simulation results were validated against experimental data from the literature, with syngas composition errors below 6%. The optimal condition was achieved at 850 °C and 1 atm, producing 38.3% H₂ and 35.72% CO. After passing through the SMR and Water Gas Shift (WGS), the hydrogen content increased to 59.26%. The system also produced biochar and bio-oil as byproducts, with a syngas mass fraction efficiency of 73%. This study contributes to the advancement of biomass conversion technology through simulation and demonstrates the potential of EFB as a sustainable and environmentally friendly energy source.